Thirty-two fifth generation aircraft have been ordered, with the fighter plane set to play an integral role in the overall modernization of the Polish Air Force. Already used by the likes of Israel, South Korea and Switzerland, an increasing number of NATO countries - among them the U.K. and Germany - have also started using them.
Produced since 2006 by Lockheed Martin, the planes will significantly bolster the technical capabilities of Poland’s air force. Incorporating stealth technology, the F-35 can carry numerous types of weaponry, including long-range AGM-158 JASSM missiles that can target enemy positions at distances of several hundred kilometers.
Initially ordered in 2020 for approximately $4.6 billion, the package also includes pilot training. Production on the first four planes started last year, and deliveries are expected to last from August until 2030. However, the first planes will not touch down in Poland until 2026 once Polish pilots have completed their training in America.
Kosiniak-Kamysz made the announcement today during a joint Polish-American aviation exercise titled Astral Knight. Taking place at Powidz in Central Poland, Polish and American pilots were also joined by counterparts from the U.K. and Lithuania.
Continuing, Kosiniak-Kamysz said: “The Polish-American alliance is the strongest it has ever been in history. We are proud that once again there are Allied aircraft on Polish soil and in our skies, and we are proud that we are exercising together.”
He added: “In the face of rising threats from the East, and the resurgence of the evil empire, our alliance and our preparation, the readiness of our soldiers and air forces is vital.”
The American Ambassador to Poland, Mark Brzezinski, reaffirmed America’s commitment to defending Poland. “After 200 years of struggle, when Americans sacrificed themselves for Polish freedom and Poles for American freedom, today the Polish and American nations share the same freedoms - we are here to defend every square meter of Poland." said the U.S. ambassador.
