Poland’s newly acquired F‑35 fighters face U.S. modernization delays that threaten their expected May 2026 arrival, according to recent Pentagon audits and Polish ministry statements.
Current Delivery Schedule
Poland has received at least four F‑35s for training at the U.S. Ebbing base, with a goal of seven by the end of 2024. The first Polish aircraft are slated to arrive in May 2026, after which the remaining 28 units will be delivered over the next three years, completing the order of 32.
Block 4 Modernisation Roadblock
Block 4, the extensive modernization that Poland expects, was supposed to finish in 2026, but a GAO audit now pushes the deadline to 2031. The upgrade scope—replacing the cockpit computer, radar, and expanding electronic warfare systems—drains power and requires engine, software, and systems changes that have proven too ambitious.
U.S. Delivery Holds and Software Issues
The U.S. paused F‑35 deliveries between July 2023 and July 2024 while awaiting a stable, certifiable software suite. The pause was lifted conditionally; the aircraft now qualify only for advanced training, not combat, because the updated software still lacks full certification.
Promises vs Reality
Polish Defence Minister said the aircraft would arrive “in the newest available configuration,” yet U.S. officials classify them as training‑only aircraft pending certification. Lockheed Martin claims the Block 4 platform is ready for certification, but no definitive timeline exists.
Armament and Logistics Challenges
Poland ordered the aircraft without weapons, relying initially on spare capacity for 48 F‑16s. With the fleet growing to 79 jets, the anticipated ammunition stockpile becomes insufficient. Recent reports indicate a shortage of AIM‑120 air‑to‑air missiles, while contracts for small stand‑off bombs and purchased JASSM/JDAM missiles are still pending.
Impact on Polish Air Strength
Once Block 4 and full armament packages arrive, Poland will gain a potent force comparable to Israel’s Block 3 fleet, enhancing air‑to‑air and precision strike capabilities. Until then, the aircraft remain a training asset amid unresolved technical and logistical hurdles.
