Defense News ,Poland :- Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has successfully delivered all 12 FA-50 Block 10 light combat aircraft to the Polish Armed Forces, a significant milestone that bolsters the capabilities of the Polish Air Force. This achievement comes on the heels of the transfer of Soviet-era MiG-29 aircraft to Ukraine, further underlining Poland commitment to upgrading its air fleet.
The completion of this delivery fulfills the terms of one of two contracts inked between Poland Ministry of Defence and KAI in September 2022. Valued at USD 705 million, the agreement outlined the procurement of 12 FA-50 Block 10 jets, with the stipulation that all deliveries would be finalized by the close of 2023. The comprehensive package included training, logistics, and technical support.
Insights from Poland Ministry of Defence reveal that the 12 FA-50 Block 10 jets are primarily designated for training purposes within the Polish Air Force. Notably, no air-to-air weapons have been procured for these aircraft, and the inventory of air-to-ground weapons systems is somewhat restricted.
The second contract, signed in September 2023, charts the course for the delivery of 36 FA-50 Block 20 aircraft, locally designated as “FA-50PL,” between 2025 and 2028. Equipped with AESA radar, these advanced aircraft are slated to integrate AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, with the total contract value estimated at around USD 2.3 billion.
In a strategic move, Poland Armament Agency has announced plans to outfit the 36 FA-50 Block 20 aircraft with Raytheon PhantomStrike radar. Additionally, the Ministry of Defence intends to upgrade the initial 12 FA-50 Block 10 aircraft, acquired under the first contract, to the FA-50PL standard. This aligns with Poland’s broader initiative to modernize its air defense capabilities and maintain a robust aerial defense posture.
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