Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1532587
Poland will become the second European user of upgraded F-16s; by 2027, Greece will have integrated 84 F-16Vs into its fleet. Image Credit: USAF The package also includes: Three AGM-158 JASSM cru- ise missiles (for testing); three GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bombs (for testing); eight GBU-53/B inert training rounds, two GBU-39/B bombs (for testing); two AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II training missiles; two CATM-9X Sidewinder training missiles, and, interestingly, the MS-110 reconnaissance pods. The list suggests that a final decision has not yet been made regarding the electronic warfare system — both options have their advantages and disadvantages. Based on public statements made by General Ireneusz Nowak, Inspector of the Polish Air Force, this decision is likely one of the factors delaying the LOA signing. The inclusion of AGM-158 JASSM missiles for testing is also intriguing, as Polish F-16s have already been integrated with this we- apon system in the past. According to the Air Force modernization plans, six aircraft will undergo upgrades per year, with most mechanical work likely conducted in Poland. Two approaches are be- ing considered: conducting the modernization in-house at both air bases or leveraging the capabilities of the Military Aviation Works No. 2 (WZL-2). WZL-2 has gained invaluable expertise in F-16 modernization through its involvement in the U.S. Air Force's Service Life Extension Program (SLEP). Following Greece's example, the first one or two upgraded F-16V will likely be sent to the United States for certifica- tion, and integration testing of the new weapons. Poland will become the second European country to com- prehensively upgrade its F-16C/D Fighting Falcons to the F-16V standard. Greece is set to complete the moderniza- tion of 84 aircraft by 2027. Additionally, Slovakia (which has received three aircraft by the end of 2024) and Bulgaria have ordered brand-new F-16C/D Fighting Falcon Block 70s. www.fragoutmag.com