Poland is evaluating the possibility of delivering another squadron of MiG-29 combat aircraft to Ukraine, as part of a newly signed defence agreement between the two nations. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Poland has already supplied over €4 billion ($4.3 billion) worth of defence equipment, including one squadron of MiG-29G aircraft.
The new security cooperation agreement, signed on July 8 by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Warsaw, proposes the delivery of Poland’s remaining squadron of MiG-29s. However, the document stipulates that such a transfer is contingent upon Poland’s security needs and the operational capabilities of the Polish Air Force.
Poland has already transferred its fleet of former East German MiG-29Gs. The remaining aircraft are in the upgraded 9.12 configuration. With the transfer of the MiGs, the Polish Air Force has become increasingly reliant on its fleet of Block 50-standard Lockheed Martin F-16s, which are now actively engaged in air defense. Poland plans to replace the MiG-29s with the advanced Korea Aerospace Industries FA-50PL Golden Eagle light combat aircraft in the coming years. Currently, twelve FA-50s are in service, assisting in the accelerated training of pilots for the F-16 and Poland’s future fleet of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters.
The agreement also explores potential support from Polish air defenses near the Ukrainian border. This proposal includes intercepting missiles and uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) in Ukrainian airspace that are heading toward Poland. A “bilateral dialogue” is underway to “examine the rationale and feasibility” of such engagements.
“We are especially grateful for the special agreements,” Zelensky said following the signing of the agreement, highlighting the mechanism for intercepting Russian missiles over Ukraine from Poland. “Our teams, along with the military, will discuss the speed of implementation of this provision.”
The agreement’s signing coincided with Russia’s missile bombardment of Kyiv, which included attacks on a children’s hospital. Moscow denied targeting the hospital, suggesting air defense missiles caused the strike. However, footage clearly shows a Russian Kh-101 missile in a terminal dive before hitting the building.
