Poland’s FA-50 Jets Set for Combat Duty in 2026 as Training Accelerates

Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said the country’s FA-50 aircraft program is advancing with pilot training and base modernization, with the aircraft expected to enter combat duty in 2026.

“I have received reports on the status of preparations for the FA-50 aircraft and our pilots, who are undergoing training, to take up duty. This process will take several months, but next year will be a breakthrough year for the FA-50 to enter combat duty,” Kosiniak-Kamysz told soldiers during a visit to the 23rd Tactical Air Base on August 20.

During his visit to the FA-50 Simulator Training Center, the minister noted that Polish pilots can now train locally instead of relying on facilities in South Korea. “The FA-50s are very similar to the F-16 in terms of operation, which facilitates the retraining process for instructors and pilots, especially those with F-16 experience. The base is undergoing a major transformation and modernization: new hangars and training areas are being built,” he said.

Poland signed a deal in 2022 with South Korea’s Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) for 48 FA-50 light combat aircraft. Twelve FA-50GF (Gap Filler) jets were delivered in 2023, while 36 FA-50PL aircraft are in development with deliveries scheduled from 2025 through 2028. The combined value of the contracts exceeds $3 billion.

The FA-50 Fighting Eagle is a South Korean-built light two-seat combat aircraft equipped with modern avionics, fire control radar, and imaging systems.