Poland plans to transfer MiG-29s to Ukraine, in return it seeks to obtain missile and drone technologies.

Poland discusses aircraft exchange with Ukraine for defense technologies

Poland plans to deliver MiG-29 aircraft to Ukraine in exchange for Ukrainian drone and missile technologies to compensate for equipment losses and develop defense competencies. A final decision on this has not yet been made.

The General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces confirmed that negotiations with Ukraine are at the stage of discussing terms for transferring the MiG-29 aircraft. The reasons for this step include reaching the target service life of the aircraft, as well as the lack of modernization prospects in the Polish army. Instead of the MiG-29, F-16, and FA-50 aircraft will carry out the tasks.

In the context of the negotiations, Poland also seeks access to advanced Ukrainian technologies in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles and missiles. According to the Polish side, this will not only compensate for the loss of equipment but also contribute to the joint development of the defense-industrial complex of both countries.

Earlier, in May 2023, Poland had already delivered 10 MiG-29 fighters to Ukraine. In August 2024, the Polish Minister of Defense mentioned that additional deliveries would be possible only after receiving new F-35 fighters from allies, which was confirmed by former Polish President Andrzej Duda in October of the same year.

Since technology exchange is important for developing defense capabilities, experts note that this could significantly enhance the security of NATO’s eastern flank. Additionally, cooperation in the defense sector strengthens relations between Poland and Ukraine amid general regional instability.