On June 10, the head of the Ministry of National Defence began his visit to the USA and visited the Eglin Air Force Base, where, among others he became acquainted with the F-35 development program - the latest - 5th generation aircraft.

- We are advanced when it comes to the process of acquiring this state-of-the-art equipment - F-35 fighters. This is a big breakthrough in the combat capabilities of Polish Air Force. This is a challenge, but it is such an element that will certainly deter the potential aggressor - the head of the National Defence Ministry said.

The minister reminded that at the end of May this year Poland has sent letter of request regarding the purchase of 32 F-35A aircraft. - We are already in the process, we as MoND have placed the letter and there have been several meetings between experts from the Polish and United States Air Force. So, we are talking, I am happy that we will finish this process quickly - added the head of the National Defence Ministry.

As the minister pointed out, the era of post-Soviet equipment used by the Polish Air Force ends, and era of the fifth generation equipment and therefore the most modern one, begins. The minister added that he wanted the Polish pilots, who belong to the world's leaders, to have effective and safe equipment.

- The planned purchase of F-35 fighters fits into the creation of the entire system that deters a potential enemy. Earlier, I signed contracts for the purchase of Patriot and Himars systems - said the head of the National Defence Ministry.

 

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On Tuesday, June 11, the head of the Ministry of National Defence will be talking with the acting US Secretary of Defence Patrick Shanahan at the Pentagon, he will also meet with the US President's Advisor for Security - Ambassador John Bolton at the National Security Council.

 

On Wednesday, June 12, in the White House, Mariusz Błaszczak, the Minister of National Defence, will take part in the debates presided over by Polish President Andrzej Duda and the US President Donald Trump.

On the last day of the visit, on June 13, at the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Washington, the head of the Polish Defence Ministry will meet with Polish and American veterans.

 

Flickr Gallery -> Mariusz Blaszczak's visit to the Eglin Air Force Base in Florida