Poland has signaled its willingness to assist in the modernization of MiG-29 fighter jets for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, provided that the financial costs are covered by Ukraine or its international allies. Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz clarified this position, as reported by Polsat News. This statement follows recent discussions concerning the technical condition of the aircraft previously supplied to Kyiv.
The Polish Minister emphasized that while Warsaw remains open to dialogue, the principle of “reciprocity and true solidarity” must be upheld. According to Kosiniak-Kamysz, the Ukrainian side has recently resumed active negotiations, which is a positive development for both countries. He noted that although the technical modernization process is feasible, the associated expenses cannot fall solely on the Polish budget, suggesting that allied nations could play a role in funding these upgrades.
This debate occurs against the backdrop of ongoing efforts to bolster Ukraine’s aerial capabilities. Poland, having been a consistent supporter since the onset of the full-scale invasion, is working to balance its own national security interests with the urgent needs of the Ukrainian Air Force. Official requests for the transfer of these specific assets have been acknowledged, and both capitals are currently working through the logistics of the transfer, which may involve potential exchanges for drone technologies or other defense offsets.
Ultimately, the modernization of these legacy platforms is a critical step in maintaining Ukraine’s ability to defend its airspace. As the conflict continues to evolve, the integration of new systems into the MiG fleet remains a priority. Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed cautious optimism, stating that the situation has improved significantly compared to previous days. The cooperation between Poland and Ukraine in the defense sector remains a pillar of regional stability, as both nations continue to navigate the complexities of long-term military support during an active war.