Poland has officially inducted its first three fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets into the Polish Armed Forces, signaling a major enhancement to its national defense and NATO’s eastern security posture. The ceremony took place at the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask, following a ceremonial flypast over major cities including Gdańsk, Warsaw, Kraków, and Łódź.
The aircraft, designated with the historic name "Husarz" after Poland’s elite heavy cavalry, represent a qualitative leap in military capability. These Lockheed Martin-built stealth fighters feature advanced sensor suites and carry precision weaponry, including AIM-120 AMRAAM and AGM-158 JASSM missiles. Their introduction significantly bolsters the alliance's deterrence capabilities against regional threats.
Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz highlighted the event as a long-awaited milestone, noting the deep strategic alliance with the United States. President Karol Nawrocki echoed this sentiment, describing the induction as a historic achievement that places Poland among an elite group of nations operating fifth-generation combat aircraft.
Poland signed a $4.6 billion contract in 2020 to acquire 32 F-35s, with deliveries scheduled to complete by 2029. The initial batch arrived in late May, with additional jets expected in the coming months. Prime Minister Donald Tusk praised the technological superiority of the new fleet, comparing it favorably to previous generations of aircraft.
Full operational capability is projected for around 2030, with the jets eventually based at Łask and Świdwin air bases. This acquisition underscores Poland’s commitment to modernizing its military infrastructure and integrating seamlessly with allied forces.