Prof. Samantha Clarke
Poland has been strategically strengthening its defence capabilities, and one of the most significant advancements in this regard is the acquisition of the F-35 stealth fighter jets, dubbed the “F-35 Husarz” by the Polish military. This acquisition not only marks a significant enhancement in Poland’s air force but also reinforces its role in NATO’s collective defence framework.
The F-35 Lightning II, with its cutting-edge technology and stealth capabilities, is one of the most advanced fighter jets in the world. The moniker “Husarz” pays homage to the historic Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth’s hussars, renowned for their agility and effectiveness in battle. The integration of the F-35 into the Polish Air Force reflects a strategic investment in maintaining regional security and a powerful deterrence against potential threats.
The deal to procure these fifth-generation fighters was finalized in January 2020, when Poland signed a contract with Lockheed Martin, the aircraft’s manufacturer, valued at approximately $4.6 billion for 32 F-35A jets. This acquisition is part of a broader effort by Poland to modernize its military forces and replace its aging fleet of Soviet-era aircraft. The delivery and full operational capability of these jets are expected to unfold in stages beyond 2024, with Polish pilots already undergoing training to master the capabilities of this sophisticated aircraft.
The F-35 offers a host of advanced features, including stealth technology that makes it practically invisible to enemy radar, an array of sensor systems for superior situational awareness, and advanced avionics that provide a digital map of the battlefield. These capabilities enable the jet to conduct missions that were previously impossible for Poland’s existing fleet, significantly altering the strategic landscape of Eastern Europe.
The benefits of this acquisition for Poland and NATO are manifold. Beyond the technical superiority of the aircraft, the F-35 Husarz enhances interoperability with NATO forces, given that the F-35 is used by numerous NATO allies, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Italy. The ability to share real-time data and intelligence across F-35 operating partners strengthens collective defence initiatives and enhances coordinated responses to potential threats.
Furthermore, the acquisition signals Poland’s commitment to meeting NATO’s defence spending guidelines, which call for member states to allocate at least 2% of their GDP to defence spending. By investing in the F-35, Poland demonstrates its dedication to enhancing its national defence capabilities while also contributing to the security of the broader Euro-Atlantic area.
In conclusion, the F-35 Husarz represents a transformative leap for the Polish Air Force, both in terms of technology and strategic capability. As Poland integrates these advanced fighter jets into its operational forces, it not only boosts its own defence posture but also reinforces its standing as a critical pillar of NATO’s eastern flank. This acquisition underscores Poland’s proactive approach to defence modernization and its enduring commitment to regional stability.
