Poland invests $3.8 billion to modernize F-16 fighter jets
Under the agreement, 48 aircraft are scheduled for modernization (Photo: Getty Images)
Poland has signed a $3.8 billion contract with the US to modernize its current fleet of F-16 fighter jets. The upgrade aims to enhance deterrence against potential Russian aggression, according to Bloomberg.
According to Poland’s Defense Minister, Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz, the current fleet of 48 US-made fighter jets will undergo a major modernization to enhance their operational interoperability with NATO.
“We are making a leap forward. We will be spending more and more for decades to come,” the minister said.
The agreement with the US was signed on Wednesday, August 13.
Poland prepares for defense
Bloomberg noted that after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Poland launched a rearmament program. This approach has made it one of NATO’s largest defense spenders, as the country allocates nearly 5% of its GDP to the program.
In recent years, Poland has made significant purchases of military equipment from the US and South Korea.
For example, in 2020, Poland ordered 32 F-35 fighters from Lockheed Martin under a $4.6 billion contract to replace outdated Soviet-era equipment. Deliveries of these stealth fighters are scheduled to begin in 2026 and will continue over four years.
Poland also plans to acquire submarines and has already ordered the construction of three frigates to better protect its maritime interests.
In March, Poland announced the creation of a Defense and Security Fund and its intention to develop an investment plan for it. The fund will receive $7.7 billion.
“Officially: Poland becomes the first country in Europe to establish a Defense and Security Fund within the KPO. We are investing billions in shelters, dual-use infrastructure, and the development of Polish defense companies,” said Poland’s Minister of Finance and Regional Policy, Katarzyna Pełczyńska-Nałęcz.
