Poland is exploring a major move that could reshape military cooperation in Eastern Europe. The country is currently in talks to donate its remaining Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine. In exchange, Poland is seeking access to Ukraine’s rapidly advancing missile and drone technology, according to the General Staff of the armed forces.
This potential transfer comes at a time when Poland is actively modernizing its air force. Officials say the MiG-29s are approaching the end of their service life and are unlikely to receive further upgrades. Donating the jets to Ukraine would serve a dual purpose: it would help Kyiv maintain its air capabilities while allowing Poland to phase in newer aircraft for its own defense needs.
Military Cooperation Between Poland and Ukraine Includes MiG-29 Jets
Polish military authorities confirmed that discussions are ongoing but emphasized that no formal decision has yet been made. According to the General Staff, the donation of MiG-29s would fit within NATO’s broader strategy of supporting Ukraine while reinforcing security along the alliance’s eastern borders.
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Currently, Poland is gradually replacing its MiG-29 fleet with US-made F-16 fighter jets and South Korea’s FA-50 light combat aircraft. These newer jets are gradually taking over the operational duties previously handled by the MiG-29s. Meanwhile, the older MiG-29s, which first entered service during the Cold War, are nearing retirement and are unlikely to remain in frontline operations for much longer.
The potential exchange would not only provide Ukraine with additional MiG-29 fighter jets but also allow Poland to benefit from Ukraine’s growing expertise in modern defense technologies. Since the war began in 2022, Ukrainian forces have made significant advances in developing drones and missile systems, turning the country into one of the world’s fastest-growing producers of unmanned systems.
Ukraine’s Growing Military Capabilities
Ukraine has emerged as a global leader in drone production. The country now manufactures thousands of unmanned aerial systems each month. These drones are used for reconnaissance and, increasingly, for targeted strike missions. In addition, Ukraine has accelerated the development of long-range missile systems, partly to overcome delays from some Western countries in providing such weapons.
Poland is reportedly exploring access to selected Ukrainian missile and drone technologies. The goal is not only to replace old equipment but also to acquire new defense and industrial capabilities. By collaborating with Ukraine, Poland hopes to strengthen its own military industry while improving technology sharing between the two nations.
Since the start of Russia’s invasion in 2022, Ukraine has already received 14 MiG-29 jets from Poland and 13 from Slovakia. These transfers have been critical in sustaining Ukraine’s aging fleet. Currently, Ukraine operates around 40 MiG-29 aircraft, which continue to play an important role in the country’s air defense operations.
Strategic Importance for NATO and Eastern Europe
Polish officials have highlighted that this initiative is part of a larger effort to strengthen NATO’s eastern flank. By helping Ukraine maintain a capable air force with MiG-29s, Poland is contributing to regional security while also enhancing its own military readiness.
The talks highlight growing military cooperation between Poland and Ukraine. While the MiG-29 jets have served Poland for decades, their operational importance is gradually declining. At the same time, Ukraine’s defense industry has demonstrated remarkable innovation under wartime pressures, particularly in unmanned and missile technologies.
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By potentially linking the donation of MiG-29 aircraft with technology sharing, Poland hopes to create a mutually beneficial arrangement. Both countries are exploring ways to collaborate on new military systems while maintaining strong ties within the NATO alliance.
No final decision has been made yet, but discussions are ongoing. The situation reflects a broader trend in Eastern Europe, where nations are working together to modernize defense capabilities amid ongoing regional tensions. The potential MiG-29 transfer could mark a notable chapter in NATO’s support for Ukraine and the broader strengthening of military cooperation in the region.