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Polish FA-50 fleet to receive AIM-9L missiles under new contract

Poland’s Ministry of National Defense has signed two key defense contracts involving the acquisition of AIM-9L air-to-air missiles for its FA-50 light combat aircraft and the purchase of twelve medical evacuation vehicles based on the KTO Rosomak platform.

The agreements were formalized during a ceremony in Warsaw attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz and Secretary of State Paweł Bejda.

Speaking at the signing, Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized that the newly procured missiles will significantly advance the operational capabilities of the FA-50 aircraft. “This is a long-anticipated step. The FA-50 is finally being equipped for both training and combat roles, following recent contracts signed with both U.S. and South Korean partners,” he said. He noted that the aircraft had initially been delivered without weapons or proper certification, limiting its usefulness for the Polish Air Force.

The ministry confirmed that 24 AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles will be delivered, with two missiles assigned to each of the twelve FA-50 jets. The timeline for their operational deployment will depend on the completion of integration and certification procedures, which are currently underway.

In addition, the Polish Armament Agency signed a contract with Rosomak S.A.—a subsidiary of the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ)—for twelve Rosomak Medical Evacuation Vehicles. The contract is valued at approximately 250 million PLN. The initial delivery will include four vehicles, with an option for additional units.

This procurement follows a larger December 2024 deal for 80 Rosomak wheeled armored personnel carriers, with deliveries planned in two batches: 40 in 2027 and another 40 in 2028. The new medical variant is intended to enhance the army’s ability to provide battlefield medical support during operational deployments.