Poland receives first F-35 fighter jets as part of major air force modernisation PHOTO

Poland has received its first three Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, marking a significant step in the country’s military modernization efforts and strengthening NATO’s eastern defenses.

The aircraft landed at Łask Air Base on May 22 after departing from the United States with stopovers, including in the Azores. Within the Polish Air Force, the new jets will be known as the “Hussars," Caliber.Az reports per Polish media. 

An official ceremony marking the F-35’s entry into service with the Polish Air Force is scheduled for June 12.

Poland signed a $4.6 billion agreement with US defense company Lockheed Martin in 2020 for the delivery of 32 F-35 multi-role fighter aircraft. All deliveries are expected to be completed by 2029.

Polish Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said the new aircraft would significantly boost the capabilities of the Polish armed forces and reinforce NATO’s eastern flank.

The F-35 is a fifth-generation combat aircraft equipped with stealth technology, advanced sensors, and data-sharing systems. The jets are capable of carrying a wide range of weapons, including long-range missiles and precision-guided bombs.

The aircraft will initially be based at Łask Air Base, where Poland’s F-16 fighter jets are already stationed. Some of the F-35s are expected to be deployed later to the airbase in Świdwin.

By Sabina Mammadli