In a landmark move to modernize its air capabilities, Poland has inked a $3.8 billion deal to upgrade all 48 of its F-16C/D Block 52+ fighter jets to the advanced F-16V Block 72 (Viper) standard. Signed on August 13, 2025, the contract was finalized at the Military Aviation Works No. 2 (WZL-2) facility in Bydgoszcz, northern Poland, and was overseen by Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
Polish officials emphasized that the current F-16 fleet, delivered between 2006 and 2008, no longer meets contemporary threat requirements. The upgrades will significantly enhance reconnaissance, communications, and interoperability with platforms such as F-35s, Abrams tanks, and Apache helicopters, while bolstering multi-domain operational effectiveness.
This comprehensive modernization plan includes equipping the aircraft with cutting-edge systems such as the AN/APG-83 AESA radar, state-of-the-art mission computers, enhanced Link 16 datalinks, and electronic warfare suites. These enhancements aim to improve target tracking, jamming resistance, and battlefield awareness, significantly raising combat effectiveness.
The agreement also incorporates advanced weapon system integration, such as AIM-120D AMRAAMs, plus support infrastructure, spare parts, simulators, and training equipment. It is designed to extend the F-16 fleet’s service life well beyond 2040, ensuring they remain combat-ready for decades to come.
Importantly, the deal underscores Poland’s drive to elevate its domestic defense industrial base. All modernization work will be executed at WZL-2, part of the state-run Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), injecting economic value and increasing national technical autonomy.
This initiative aligns with Poland’s broader security strategy; by 2026, the country plans to allocate 5% of its GDP to defense, positioning itself as a leading NATO military spender.
The first modernized jets are expected to roll out by 2028, with the entire program backed partially by U.S. Foreign Military Financing (FMF), slated for completion by 2038.
This F-16 upgrade comes alongside other major acquisitions, such as a recent multi-billion dollar deal with South Korea’s Hyundai Rotem for battle tanks, signaling Poland’s continued expansion and modernization of its armed forces.
