Poland Is Ready to Modernize MiG-29s for Ukraine, but at Partners’ Expense

Poland is ready to assist Ukraine with the modernization of MiG-29 fighter jets, but the costs of this project must be covered by Ukraine or its partner countries.

This was stated by Polish Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz during a briefing in the Ukrainian city of Olyka in the Volyn region, according to Defence24.

“We can help as much as possible here, but the funding must come from the Ukrainian government or allied countries willing to cover these costs,” the Polish defense minister noted.

As a reminder, following an inspection of the Polish aircraft, the Ukrainian delegation was dissatisfied with their condition, as these aircraft require repairs before they can be put into service.

Due to a prolonged lack of proper maintenance, MiG-29s’ technical capabilities were deemed unsatisfactory, and the landing gear raised particular concern among experts.

At the end of last year, the Ministry of National Defence and the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces announced their intention to transfer to Ukraine some of the MiG-29s that remain in service with the Polish Air Force.

According to the initial agreements, in exchange for the aircraft, Poland was to gain access to Ukrainian drone technologies, which are being actively developed and tested on the front lines.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that these fighter jets are important because Ukrainian pilots know how to fly them. He emphasized that “the issue is not a shortage of aircraft, but a shortage of pilots.”

In June, Poland reported that it had not yet provided Ukraine with the specified aircraft due to an unresolved issue regarding the transfer of unmanned systems technology.

Polish Deputy Minister of Defence Cezary Tomczyk noted that the aircraft would be delivered as soon as this issue is finally resolved.

In July, the countries resumed negotiating regarding the possible transfer of nine MiG-29 fighter jets.

Additionally, the Polish defense conglomerate Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) is considering the possibility of participating in the repair and maintenance of Ukrainian F-16 and MiG-29 fighter jets.