Poland deploys FA-50s for air defense duty against Russian drones — AeroTime
In Poland, FA-50GF light combat aircraft began conducting quick reaction alert duties in the air defense system on October 1, 2026. The aircraft are based at the 23rd Tactical Air Base in Mińsk Mazowiecki. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced the introduction of FA-50GFs into combat duty on X, AeroTime writes.
Brigadier General Norbert Chojnacki, commander of the 2nd Tactical Air Wing, announced the start of the duties during a conference dedicated to the 20th anniversary of F-16 fighter operations in Poland. MiG-29s had previously been stationed at the air base in Mińsk Mazowiecki; they were transferred to the 22nd Tactical Air Base in Malbork.
Tasks for the FA-50GF
Operational Commander of the Polish Armed Forces Major General Ireneusz Nowak said that FA-50GFs would primarily be used against potential threats, including Geran-4 and Geran-5 jet-powered strike drones. According to the Main Directorate of Intelligence of Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, these are Russian jet-powered strike drones.
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The HUR reported that the Geran-5 was first used in January 2026 and has a cruising speed of between 450 and 600 kilometers per hour. According to intelligence data, Russia, the aggressor state, introduced the Geran-4 in May 2026 to counter Ukrainian interceptor drones.
FA-50PL deliveries
Poland ordered 48 FA-50 aircraft from Korea Aerospace Industries in 2022. The first 12 aircraft in the FA-50GF version, called Gap Filler, were delivered in the second half of 2023. Another 36 aircraft are to arrive in the more capable FA-50PL version.
Under the updated schedule, deliveries of the FA-50PL are to begin in mid-2027 and be completed in early 2029. These aircraft are expected to receive upgraded radars, avionics, weapons and other improvements. In January 2026, Poland’s Armament Agency signed documents concerning the integration of AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles with the FA-50PL.
