Polish F-35 Husarz jets to fly over Gdańsk in symbolic milestone for armed forces modernisation

The formation is scheduled to begin its route over Gdańsk at approximately 09:45, passing above Westerplatte, a site of profound importance in Poland’s military history. The aircraft will then continue to Warsaw before concluding the flight over Kraków.

The F-35 programme moves from procurement to operational capability

Poland is currently implementing one of the most significant military modernisation programmes in its post-Cold War history. Under an agreement signed with the United States, the country is expected to receive a total of 32 F-35A aircraft by 2030. The first three aircraft arrived in Poland in May 2026, marking the beginning of a new phase in the development of national air power capabilities.

The acquisition was finalised in January 2020 and included not only the aircraft themselves but also a comprehensive training and logistics package. In the years that followed, Polish pilots and maintenance personnel underwent training in the United States, while infrastructure upgrades were carried out at home to prepare air bases for the introduction of fifth-generation aircraft.

The first aircraft produced for Poland was unveiled in 2024 and received the name Husarz, referencing the legendary winged hussars that remain one of the most recognisable symbols of Poland’s military heritage. With the arrival of the first aircraft on Polish soil, the programme has entered a new stage focused on building operational capability rather than preparing for future delivery.

The F-35 is far more than a conventional fighter aircraft. As a fifth-generation multi-role platform, it combines strike, reconnaissance and command-and-control functions. Its advanced sensor suite and data-sharing capabilities allow it to act as an airborne information node, enhancing the effectiveness of joint operations across air, land and maritime domains.

Strategic importance for Baltic security

The introduction of the F-35 carries particular significance for security in the Baltic region. Poland has become the first country on NATO’s eastern flank to field the aircraft, strengthening deterrence and situational awareness capabilities in one of the Alliance’s most strategically important areas.

For countries bordering the Baltic Sea, the ability to monitor air and maritime activity, identify potential threats and integrate operations with allied forces is becoming increasingly important. In this context, the F-35 forms part of a broader effort to build a multi-layered regional security architecture capable of responding to evolving challenges.

The aircraft are based at the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask, a location that previously played a central role in the introduction of Poland’s F-16 fleet. The base is expected to become a key hub for future F-35 operations and training.

A visible sign of Poland’s defence transformation

Although the flypast has a ceremonial character, it also serves as a public demonstration of the progress achieved in one of Poland’s most ambitious defence modernisation programmes. The first Polish F-35 took to the air in December 2024, while the first Polish pilots completed their training in May 2025. Less than a year later, the first aircraft were delivered to Poland and entered service with the Polish Air Force.

For defence industry stakeholders, military analysts and regional security observers, the event represents a tangible sign of Poland’s continuing efforts to strengthen its armed forces and enhance interoperability within NATO. The flyover above Westerplatte, Warsaw and Kraków is therefore not merely a symbolic gesture, but also a visible confirmation that Poland has joined the community of nations operating one of the world’s most advanced combat aviation systems.