Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1542142
trained in the United States. A group of technicians and engineers from various aviation-engineering specialties, along with supporting personnel, is also undergoing training – some have already completed the theoretical phase and moved on to practical exercises at Ebbing Air Base allowing Polish personnel to familiarize themselves directly withF-35A. In parallel with ground personnel training, pilot training is also progressing – two pilots have completed instructor-level training, two more are at a course stage enabling them to acquire such qualifications, and an additional two are undergoing basic F-35A training. According to the agreement signed on January 31st, 2020, 24 Polish pilots will be trained in the United States, with some gaining instructor qualifications to build domestic training capabilities for future pilots. It is worth noting that, of the 32 Lockheed Martin F-35A aircraft ordered, half will be delivered to Poland from the U.S. production facilities in Fort Worth, while the remainder will be assembled at the European center in Cameri, Italy. Currently, in addition to personnel training and aircraft deliveries, a key element is the preparation of ground infrastructure at both air bases, which will serve as the permanent home for the F-35A. It should be noted that other domestic airbases can also safely operate these aircraft (a prime example being the presence of allied contingents in Malbork and Poznań). Among ongoing investments, which include the construction of new buildings and hangars, a competition among building material suppliers is evident – on October 24th, the Chancellery of the Sejm published the MOD response to a parliamentary inquiry regarding possible irregularities in hangar construction: The use of XPS 700 material instead of FOAMGLASS in one layer of the floor construction is a AVIATION