Poland has officially launched its first domestic training program for FA-50 pilots, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to integrate the South Korean-built fighter jets into its air force.
The initial phase of training is currently underway at the 23rd Tactical Air Base, involving a small group of pilots. At this early stage, the focus is on familiarizing trainees with the aircraft’s systems and construction. The entire training process—including simulator and live flight training—will be conducted entirely within Poland.
State-of-the-art simulators have already been installed in a newly constructed facility at the 23rd Tactical Air Base. The program is being carried out under a new Polish-designed training framework, developed over the past two years based on operational experience.
In parallel, a second group of Polish pilots who began training in South Korea six months ago have recently completed their first solo flights in the FA-50, now back in Poland.
Additionally, two teams of Polish aviation technicians and engineers are currently in South Korea to inspect AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, which are expected to be leased for use with Poland’s growing FA-50 fleet.
The FA-50 program represents a key step in Poland’s broader military modernization strategy, aimed at enhancing both pilot readiness and national defense capabilities.
