Find out how Poland’s first F-35, unveiled by Lockheed Martin, strengthens national security and NATO cooperation.

On 28 August 2024, Lockheed Martin unveiled Poland’s first F-35 at a ceremony in Fort Worth, Texas. This stealth jet, the first of an order for 32 aircraft, symbolises Poland’s desire to modernise its defence in the face of Russian aggression in Ukraine. Equipped with the latest Block 4 technologies, the F-35 will contribute to regional deterrence and NATO’s credibility. With delivery scheduled for 2030, this acquisition is part of a series of significant military investments to strengthen the security of Poland and its allies.

Modernising Polish defence: a major strategic challenge

Poland is in a unique geopolitical situation in Europe. As the only nation sharing borders with Russia, Ukraine and Belarus, it is directly exposed to potential threats from these neighbours, particularly in the context of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Faced with these challenges, the modernisation of Polish defence has become a national priority. The acquisition of 32 F-35s, at a cost of 4.6 billion dollars (around 4.3 billion euros), is part of a wider strategy of military reinforcement, which also includes the purchase of Apache helicopters and other modern weapons systems.

The F-35, known for its stealth, air superiority and interoperability with NATO forces, is at the heart of this modernisation. This acquisition will provide Poland with cutting-edge air defence capabilities, crucial for deterrence and collective defence in Eastern Europe. Experts believe that these fighters will enable Poland to respond better to regional threats and play a more active role in NATO missions.

The technological implications of the F-35 for Poland

The F-35 acquired by Poland is equipped with the Technology Refresh 3 (TR-3) upgrade, which includes hardware and software improvements essential to unlock the capabilities of Block 4. This block introduces advanced features such as enhanced sensor fusion, improved weapons management, and more sophisticated electronic warfare systems. However, TR-3-equipped aircraft are currently limited to training roles, due to persistent software problems that should be resolved by next year.

These improvements will provide Poland with an aircraft capable not only of air superiority missions, but also of advanced reconnaissance operations and precise strikes on ground targets. This versatility is crucial in a security environment where threats are increasingly varied and unpredictable. In addition, the F-35’s ability to integrate data from multiple sources and collaborate effectively with other allied weapons systems enhances the cohesion and effectiveness of NATO forces.

Geopolitical consequences of the acquisition of the F-35 by Poland

Poland’s acquisition of the F-35 has major geopolitical implications for Eastern Europe and for NATO as a whole. The presence of F-35s in Poland, alongside those already ordered by Germany and the Czech Republic, creates an air corridor of stealth fighters along NATO’s eastern border. This considerably strengthens the alliance’s defence posture against any potential aggression from Russia.

Moreover, this acquisition comes against a backdrop of increased military spending in Poland, in direct response to Russia’s aggressive actions. Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Poland has stepped up its efforts to modernise its armed forces, not only in terms of equipment, but also by strengthening its strategic alliances with the United States and other NATO members. Increased cooperation between NATO air forces, facilitated by the interoperability of the F-35, is essential to ensure a coordinated and effective response in the event of conflict.

Prospects for the future of Polish defence

With the arrival of the first F-35s in Poland in 2026, the Polish Air Force will enter a new era of military capability. However, this transition will not be without its challenges. In addition to maintenance and logistics issues, Poland will need to train a sufficient number of pilots and technicians to operate and maintain these sophisticated aircraft. Current efforts to establish an international training hub at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas are a crucial first step in meeting these challenges.

At the same time, Poland will need to continue to invest in other aspects of its defence, in particular by strengthening its ground-air defence capabilities to protect its new strategic assets. Although the F-35 is a major technological advance, it must be integrated into an overall defence strategy that includes greater resilience to hybrid threats, such as cyber attacks and disinformation.

Poland’s acquisition of the F-35 represents a strategic turning point that will strengthen not only national security, but also regional stability in Eastern Europe. This programme, although complex and costly, is a necessary investment to meet the security challenges of the 21st century.

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