Poland won't be sending F-16 jets to Ukraine, says 'We have too few aircrafts'

In a press conference on Thursday, Polish Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki revealed that Poland does t possess a sufficient number of F-16 jets or Patriot air defense systems to offer assistance to Ukraine. However, as per a report from RT, he called on or countries to promptly provide Ukraine with necessary military support.

Speaking at European Political Community summit held in Moldova, Morawiecki stated, "We have too few F-16 aircraft, so at moment, today, re are such expectations from us." Polish Air Force currently operates 48 F-16 fighters, including 12 training variants. Although Poland has placed orders for 48 Golden Eagle light jets from South Korea and 32 F-35s from United States, se deliveries have t yet taken place.

Where will F-16s come from?

Morawiecki emphasised that Poland h alrey contributed to Ukraine's defense efforts by supplying some of its Soviet-era MiG-29 jets, following in footsteps of Slovakia. Polish Prime Minister ted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for organising F-16 "coalition," referring to collective efforts of several NATO members to support Ukraine with se US-designed fighters. However, source of F-16 jets remains uncertain despite various countries, including Poland, offering to train Ukrainian pilots.

Regarding damd or destroyed Patriot air defense systems, Morawiecki delivered more disappointing news to Ukraine. He explained, "Just as we don't have eugh F-16 fighters, we can't hand over our Patriot systems to Ukraine for same reason." Morawiecki stressed importance of or countries with Patriot systems sharing m with Ukraine as quickly as possible.

Both F-16 jets and Patriot systems have been identified as crucial assets by Ukraine in its efforts to enhance its combat capabilities against Russia, particularly in light of its planned counteroffensive. While Poland finds itself unable to provide se resources, Morawiecki has urged or nations to step forward and support Ukraine in its quest for enhanced defense capabilities.