Polish PGZ can repair Ukrainian F-16 and MiG-29

Poland's state-owned defense holding company, PGZ, has expressed interest in potentially repairing and modernizing Ukrainian fighter jets, including both F-16s and MiG-29s. This information was shared during an interview with Adam Leszekiewicz, chairman of PGZ’s board, who spoke to Ukrinform and relayed the statement to European Pravda. The discussions involve collaboration between several Polish companies under PGZ and Ukrainian defense manufacturers. Initially, this cooperation focused on armored vehicles, particularly the purchase of self-propelled howitzers Krab produced at Huta Stalowa Wola steelworks by Ukraine. Now, the scope of their partnership is expanding into supporting, repairing, and servicing Ukrainian aircraft that have been transferred to them by partners.

Leszekiewicz emphasized that alongside these efforts, PGZ is also working on producing components for ammunition and missiles for the Ukrainian military. He added that Poland is opening new areas of cooperation with Ukraine, highlighting a recent memorandum of intent signed with TAF Industries, a Ukrainian company. The potential collaboration includes drones and could involve technology transfer as well as production agreements.

Recent statements by Cezary Tomczak, deputy minister of defense in Poland, indicated that negotiations between Poland and Ukraine regarding the planned delivery of MiG-29 fighters are ongoing. Tomczak explained that deliveries have not yet taken place because Poland is waiting for the resolution of issues related to the transfer of Ukrainian drone technologies. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Minister of Defense, Mykhailo Fedorov, announced in January that Ukraine and Poland are deepening their defense cooperation, especially concerning strengthening air forces and jointly working on modernizing the MiG-29 fighters that Poland plans to transfer.

The discussions around the repair and modernization of Ukrainian fighter jets come amid broader efforts to bolster Ukraine’s military capabilities in response to ongoing conflict. While the specifics of the planned transfers remain unclear, the involvement of Polish companies suggests a growing trend of international support for Ukraine’s defense infrastructure. This includes not just the provision of equipment but also the technical expertise needed to maintain and upgrade existing assets.

The potential role of PGZ in this effort highlights the increasing importance of regional partnerships in addressing security challenges. As part of this collaboration, Polish firms are already engaged in producing essential components for Ukrainian military use, indicating a shift towards more comprehensive support beyond initial equipment transfers. Such developments underscore the evolving nature of defense alliances in Eastern Europe, where countries are seeking to enhance mutual security through joint projects and technological exchanges.

Looking ahead, the success of these initiatives will depend on resolving outstanding issues such as technology transfers and ensuring seamless coordination between all parties involved. With both sides showing commitment to deepening their defense ties, the coming months may bring further announcements about concrete steps being taken to strengthen Ukraine’s aerial capabilities through collaborative efforts with Poland.