DefensePoland negotiates MiG-29 transfer to Ukraine for drone and missile tech access
Poland is in active negotiations to transfer additional MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine in exchange for access to drone and missile technologies. The talks take place as Warsaw seeks to maximize the remaining value of its aging MiG-29 fleet.
The initiative responds to limited prospects for modernizing the MiG-29, which is approaching the end of its operational lifespan. The move aligns with Poland’s broader policy of supporting Ukraine and enhancing bilateral defense cooperation.
“The donation of aircraft will be an element of the allied policy of supporting Ukraine and maintaining the security of NATO’s eastern flank. The tasks of the MIG-29 aircraft withdrawn from service will be performed by F-16 and FA-50 aircraft,” said the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces.
Since the onset of Russia’s large-scale invasion, Poland has donated between 10 and 14 MiG-29s to Ukraine. The remaining aircraft are being phased out and replaced with F-16 and FA-50 fighters.
In September, Poland and Ukraine formalized a joint working group to exchange expertise on drone warfare. This agreement follows intensified collaboration on defense technologies between the two countries.
Poland is concurrently modernizing its air force with a $3.8 billion contract signed in August with the United States to upgrade 48 F-16s. The first deliveries of F-35 fighters ordered by Poland are scheduled for next year.
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