Poland Receives First F-35 Jets in Major Military Modernization Step

(MENAFN) Poland took a significant step in its defense modernization program on Friday with the arrival of its first F-35A fighter aircraft, reinforcing its growing reliance on the United States as a key security partner, according to reports.

The country becomes the first NATO member on the alliance’s eastern flank to field the F-35, moving ahead of several regional allies in introducing fifth-generation combat aircraft.

Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized both the symbolic and strategic importance of the delivery in a post on social media platform X, saying Poland is entering “a new era” in air power. He noted that the milestone reflects years of preparation not only in procurement, but also in infrastructure development, pilot training, and operational readiness.

The defense ministry also highlighted that Polish pilots and technical personnel had already undergone training in the United States, adding that the arrival of the aircraft marks the beginning of full integration into operational service rather than its completion.

MENAFN23052026000045017640ID1111156833