Polish Air Force buys FA-50 light fighters

According to the Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blasczak, Poland discussed the purchase of Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jets with the US but the manufacturer (Lockheed Martin) was unable to deliver the aircraft on such short notice, leading Poland to select the Korean Aerospace Industries (KAI) FA-50 light attack aircraft.

A total of 48 FA-50 light attack aircraft are ordered for the Siły Powietrzne RP (Polish Air Force) and all will be in the latest Block 20 configuration, capable of carrying AIM-120 AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missiles. The first twelve aircraft will be delivered in 2023.

Mariusz Blasczak also emphasised that many of the FA-50s systems are based on those of the F-16, meaning that pilots who will fly the FA-50 will be able to transit to the F-16 easily and also Poland is capable of maintaining the new airplanes. In 2026 an FA-50 service center will be built in Poland.

He also said “I will add now that acquiring these aircraft is not our last word in terms of developing the capabilities of the Polish Air Force. We will accelerate the deliveries of the already contracted F-35s. In the longer term, we plan to acquire additional F-35 or F-15 and we are closely monitoring the progress of our partners from South Korea on the KF-21 Boramae”.

Photo (just illustrative): Santiparp Wattanaporn