Poland inducts first F-35 fighters, eyes fleet expansion

Poland formally accepted its first three F‑35A "Husarz" fighter jets at the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask, in a ceremony attended by President Karol Nawrocki and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak‑Kamysz. The jets – part of a $4.6 billion contract for 32 aircraft signed in 2020 – were showcased with a fly‑over of Danzig, Warsaw and Kraków before landing at the base.

Lockheed Martin described the delivery as “an important milestone for the nation’s defence and for regional security across Europe,” while Polish officials highlighted the acquisition as a sign of the close US‑Poland alliance and a boost to NATO’s eastern flank against Russia. During the ceremony the aircraft were officially named “Husarz” and christened by selected godmothers.

Poland also announced plans to procure two additional squadrons – a total of 64 F‑35s – under its classified Armed Forces Development Programme, signalling a long‑term commitment to modernising its air force and enhancing interoperability with allied forces.