Polish Air Force Commander Lt. Gen. Ireneusz Nowak flew South Korea’s KF-21 Boramae fighter jet during an official visit this week, underscoring deepening military and industrial cooperation between Warsaw and Seoul.
The visit included high-level talks at South Korea’s Air Force Headquarters in Gyeryongdae, where Gen. Nowak met with ROK Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Lee Young-soo. Both commanders expressed a shared commitment to expanding collaboration in areas ranging from airpower development to defense manufacturing and pilot training.
Warsaw Looks to Seoul as Strategic Defense Partner
Poland has rapidly emerged as a key defense partner for South Korea in Europe. In 2022, the two countries signed a landmark agreement for 48 FA-50 light combat aircraft, produced by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI). Twelve of those—designated FA-50GF—are already in service with the Polish Air Force. Deliveries of the remaining 36 FA-50PL variants are ongoing.
The program forms part of Poland’s broader efforts to modernize its fleet and diversify its defense suppliers amid shifting regional dynamics.
KF-21 Flight Signals Deeper Industrial Engagement
During his stop at KAI headquarters, Gen. Nowak boarded a KF-21 prototype alongside a company test pilot to assess the aircraft’s handling and performance. The flight marked a rare hands-on evaluation by a foreign military chief and signals growing interest in the Boramae platform, which is expected to enter full-scale production later this decade.
While no formal procurement discussions have been disclosed, the visit suggests Poland may be open to exploring long-term industrial collaboration beyond the FA-50.
Training and Interoperability in Focus
Gen. Nowak also visited the Republic of Korea Air Force’s 1st Fighter Wing to meet Polish pilots currently undergoing training on the T-50 advanced jet trainer. The stop highlighted the broader scope of bilateral cooperation, extending into pilot development and tactical integration.
Later, he toured the Air Force Education and Training Command, where he was briefed on South Korea’s military training framework and simulation infrastructure.
Looking Ahead
With both countries pursuing stronger defense postures, the Polish commander’s visit reflected not only shared operational priorities but also the strategic value of aligning industrial capabilities. As South Korea expands its footprint in global defense markets, Poland’s continued engagement could lay the groundwork for future co-development and joint procurement initiatives.
