F-35 Lightning II News

December 24, 2024 (by Lieven Dewitte) - On Monday, December 23, 2024, the first two Polish F-35A Husarz jets touched down at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas, marking a significant milestone in Poland's transition to fifth-generation fighter capabilities.
Poland's journey into the fifth-generation fighter jet era is set to begin in January 2025 when the first two Polish pilots start flying the F-35A Lightning II. These aircraft are likely the first two to have completed their test flights in December 2024: AZ-02 on December 2 and AZ-01 on December 3. A third aircraft, (AZ-03), followed shortly after on December 17. Ultimately, eight F-35s will be stationed at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas to support Poland's extensive training program.

Comprehensive training program in the U.S.
The training program at Ebbing will prepare 24 Polish pilots and 92 technical personnel by 2027. The pilots will be trained to instructor-level proficiency, enabling them to lead future training in Poland. The Integrated Training Center in Poland, equipped with eight full-mission simulators, will host this domestic phase of pilot instruction.

The Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA), part of the U.S. Department of Defense, plays a key role in the process. Each F-35 undergoes two acceptance flights by the manufacturer and an additional two flights under DCMA supervision before being formally handed over to the Polish Air Force.

A cutting-edge fleet
Poland is acquiring 32 F-35A aircraft under a $4.6 billion intergovernmental agreement signed on January 31, 2020. These jets will feature the advanced Block 4 configuration and Technical Refresh 3 (TR3) systems, ensuring state-of-the-art capabilities. The first squadron is scheduled to be operational at the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask by late 2025 or early 2026, with the second squadron to follow at the 21st Tactical Air Base in Świdwin by 2030.

Weapons and future capabilities
Poland's F-35As will be armed with a robust array of munitions, including Northrop Grumman AGM-88G AARGM-ER missiles for extended-range anti-radiation missions, AGM-158B-2 JASSM-ER cruise missiles, AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missiles, and AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missiles. The country is also exploring options for anti-ship missiles to further enhance the fleet's versatility.

Strategic implications
The deployment of the F-35A marks a significant leap in Poland's defense capabilities, providing unmatched stealth, sensor fusion, and multi-role adaptability. With a growing emphasis on regional security, these aircraft will bolster NATO's eastern flank and serve as a key deterrent against evolving threats.