Poland is weighing a move that could see at least 14 MiG-29 fighter jets handed to Ukraine, effectively forming a new squadron. This consideration surfaced after a briefing in the office of Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, where the possibility was outlined for Poland to contribute an additional MiG-29 squadron if conditions permit. The aim is to bolster Ukraine’s air defense as aerial threats persist in the region and Ukrainian forces adapt to evolving battlefield realities. [citation: Office of the President of Ukraine]
Poland’s leadership has shown cautious openness to such a transfer, indicating that the decision would be revisited if the strategic balance improves and there is a viable path to exchanging or upgrading the aircraft. The stance emphasizes that any move would be anchored in a broader operational framework designed to safeguard Poland’s own security commitments while enabling meaningful support for Ukrainian air power. [citation: Polish Government Communications]
Earlier remarks from Donald Tusk, who previously led the Polish government, noted that a MiG transfer was not feasible at that moment because the jets were actively assigned to NATO Air Policing duties, protecting Polish airspace as part of a multinational mission. He added that a future decision could be possible if the security balance shifts and opportunities to replace or upgrade the fighters become available. [citation: Polish Government Statements]
Polish officials say the push to reexamine the transfer is driven by the ongoing strain on Ukraine’s air force after Russian strikes on military airfields in the Poltava region. Kyiv is exploring options to strengthen its fighter fleet, including the potential deployment of allied aircraft such as F-16s within Poland to support Ukrainian defense operations. [citation: Ukrainian Defense Ministry, NATO briefings]
In recent months Poland paused previous MiG-29 flights due to heightened activity by Russian aviation, a factor that complicated immediate transfer plans. The current discussions reflect a broader pattern of Western security cooperation aimed at coordinating battlefield support while honoring allied obligations and ensuring smooth integration of any transferred assets. Ukraine’s leadership continues to monitor developments as it weighs the tactical value of additional fighter capability against strategic considerations on both sides of the alliance. [citation: NATO summits, Polish Defense Ministry]”