Polish pilots hailed over successful F-35 training

Poland’s Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz on Saturday congratulated the Polish pilots who have completed an initial training on F-35 fighter jets in the United States.

F-35 fighter jet. Photo: x.com/KosiniakKamysz

He emphasized that their efforts contribute significantly to strengthening the nation’s defense capabilities.

„Congratulations to the Polish pilots who yesterday in the U.S. completed the first stage of F-35 training. Professionalism and extraordinary experience — that’s what made this success possible,” Kosiniak-Kamysz wrote on X.

He also thanked the servicemembers for their dedication, emphasizing that their efforts not only enhance Poland’s operational readiness but also deepen interoperability with allies — foundations he described as essential to national security.

Poland signed a deal in 2020 to acquire 32 F-35A fighter jets, along with a comprehensive logistics and training package. The logistics component includes spare and consumable parts, ground support equipment, pilot gear, and a computerised maintenance management system. The training package covers comprehensive instruction of pilots and technical personnel in the U.S.

The F-35 is Poland’s first multi-role fighter jet designed with stealth capabilities, making it harder to detect by enemy radar, the PAP news agency said.

According to Lockheed Martin, the first F-35A jets are expected to arrive in Poland in 2026. The aircraft are intended to gradually replace the aging fleet of Soviet-era MiG fighters, which will remain in service until the end of their operational lifespan, the Defense Ministry has said.

(mo)

Source: PAP

Radio Poland