Historic flight for Poland’s first F-35 pilot

• A Polish Air Force pilot made history by flying the F-35A Lightning II with the 33rd Fighter Wing. The flight has been seen as an enhancement of international military collaboration.
• The Foreign Military Sales program builds partnerships and promotes interoperability between the U.S. military and allies.
• Training at Ebbing Air National Guard base aims to provide Polish pilots with top-notch instruction for the F-35, and graduation is anticipated in Spring 2025.

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A Polish Air Force F-35A Lightning II pilot took the first flight in his country’s newest aircraft on Jan. 31. This marked a historic moment in the 33rd Fighter Wing’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) operations. FMS programs help build long-term relationships between the U.S. military and its allies. They provide access to joint training and doctrine while increasing opportunities for interoperability with U.S. forces.

“In this era of strategic competition, we’re committed to equipping our allies with the capabilities they need while fostering greater interoperability,” Col. Dave Skalicky, commander of the 33rd Fighter Wing, said. “From last September’s operational debut with the F-35 to the student training happening now, the team at Ebbing is showing its value to allied defense around the globe.”

“Having these pilots make their country’s first F-35 flights here in Fort Smith and recognizing the teamwork at all levels it took to get us here is an extremely powerful and rewarding feeling,” Skalicky continued.

Here comes the cavalry. 🐎

Introducing Poland’s first F-35A “Husarz”, honoring the legendary Winged Hussars cavalry. pic.twitter.com/20vQEa7Whr

— Lockheed Martin (@LockheedMartin) August 28, 2024

How long have Polish pilots been training on the F-35?

The 33rd Fighter Wing began foundational training with Polish pilots on F-35 simulators and academics at Eglin Air Force Base in October 2024, building the Foreign Military Sales program from the ground up.

“Creating a program like this requires relentless commitment, innovative thinking, and a strong pursuit of a common goal,” Col. Nicholas Ihde, commander of the 85th Fighter Group, said. “By combining world-class academics and simulations at our Academic Training Center back at Eglin, we ensure our partners receive the highest quality instruction before ever strapping into the jet for the first time.”

The launch of F-35 training at Ebbing is part of collaborative efforts between the Air Education and Training Command, Poland and other partners. Officials said there was also strong support from local and state officials in Fort Smith.

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“It’s incredible to see the Polish pilots take their first F-35 flights right here in Fort Smith,” George McGill, mayor of Fort Smith, Arkansas, said. “This moment highlights the important role Ebbing plays in preparing our allies for the future of defense, and we’re honored to support them.”

How will Poland use the F-35?

The F-35 will provide Poland with state-of-the-art air defense capability. This will enable the country to better contribute to regional security and defend its sovereignty.

“This is a historic moment for the Polish Air Force, and we are honored to be training alongside our U.S. counterparts at Ebbing,” a Polish student pilot said. “The F-35A is a game-changing platform, and we are confident our pilots will benefit greatly from the world-class instruction and facilities available here. We thank our American friends for their hospitality and cooperation and look forward to a successful and productive training experience.”

The Polish Air Force pilots are expected to graduate in Spring 2025.