Poland has taken another important step in its air force modernization program with the progress of production of two more multi-role aircraft F-35A Lightning II Husarz-fighter aircraft.
The devices have now entered the final phase of the assembly line and are now moving on to the painting phase, indicating that delivery is approaching.
The two new jets correspond to serial numbers 3509 (AZ-09) and 3510 (AZ-10). These aircraft mark the start of direct deliveries to Poland, as provided for in the contract signed with the United States.
According to the official schedule, the first eight F-35A Husarz aircraft — numbered 3501 to 3508 — will remain in the United States for the education and training of Polish pilots. These aircraft are expected to remain there until approximately the third quarter of 2027. From aircraft number 3509, the fighters will be delivered directly to Polish territory, with the first delivery expected in 2026.
The contract for the purchase of 32 fifth-generation aircraft was signed in 2020 and represents one of the largest recent investments by the Polish Armed Forces. Production of the Husarz variant began three years later, in accordance with the program’s industrial planning.
The first operational F-35As will be assigned to the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask. At the end of 2025, the base received a new operational area with complete and modern infrastructure, specially prepared for the deployment of fifth-generation fighters, including hangars, support systems and advanced maintenance facilities.
With the arrival of the F-35A Husarz, Poland significantly strengthens its air defense capabilities, as well as its interoperability with NATO allies and its strategic presence on Europe’s eastern flank.
Why “Husarz”?
The name F-35A Husarz was chosen by Poland as a national designation for its F-35A Lightning II fighter aircraft, in line with a historical and symbolic tradition of the Polish Armed Forces.
“Husarz” is the Polish word for “Hussar”, a direct reference to the Polish Winged Hussars, one of the most famous and feared cavalry formations in Europe between the 16th and 17th centuries.
Just as the Hussars once dominated the land battlefield, the F-35A is seen as a dominant force in modern airspace.
+ The United Kingdom denies external elimination of the F-35 and recognizes structural dependence on the United States
Source and images: Ministerstwo Obrony Narodowej (Poland) – X @MON_GOV_PL. This content was created using AI and reviewed by editors.
