Poland is actively considering the procurement of the Boeing F-15EX fighter jet as part of a substantial increase in defense expenditure. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing the nation’s military capabilities, a commitment that was reinforced in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
In May 2023, the Polish Air Force inspector at the General Command of the Polish Armed Forces, General Ireneusz Nowak, estimated that Poland was in need of two additional squadrons.
“Our analysis indicates that the ideal quantity of combat aircraft for Poland, given the prevailing threat level, stands at 10 squadrons, equating to 160 aircraft,” Nowak told the Polish Press Agency at the time. “Presently, Poland possesses 48 F-16 fighters, and with the contracted acquisition of F-35 and FA-50 fighters, this totals eight squadrons. Looking ahead, there are plans to equip two additional squadrons.”
And Poland could opt for the Boeing F-15EX. At the annual MSPO International Defence Industry Exhibition held in Poland, Boeing presented its F-15EX fighter aircraft as a potential addition to Poland’s military arsenal through the U.S. Department of Defense Foreign Military Sales program.
“Poland’s interest in the F-15EX confirms its dedication to the preparedness and effectiveness of its military forces,” Tim Flood, Senior Director of Global Business Development for Europe and the Americas at Boeing, stated.
The F-15EX is currently in production, with two aircraft already delivered to the U.S. Air Force. Notably, Indonesia recently became the eighth country to select the F-15 and is set to become the first export customer for the latest FX variant, pending the finalization of the sale.
The most recent version of the F-15 Eagle air superiority fighter, known as the F-15EX, boasts enhanced payload capacity, fly-by-wire controls, a state-of-the-art digital cockpit, upgraded sensors, advanced radar systems, and electronic warfare capabilities. It is anticipated that the F-15EX will gradually supplant the aging F-15C/D models and rejuvenate the United States Air Force’s F-15 fleet.