First woman becomes F-16 fighter pilot in Poland

The news was shared by Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz on social media. Until now, only men had flown F-16 fighter jets in the Polish Air Force.  

"This is an important moment for our Air Force and the entire Polish Armed Forces — the first woman has become an F-16 pilot! She is an officer serving at the 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask. After completing her training in the United States, she is now ready to operate our fighter jets. Congratulations!" the minister wrote.  

Due to security reasons, the pilot’s identity has not been disclosed.  

Kosiniak-Kamysz also mentioned that another female pilot is currently undergoing training at the 31st Tactical Air Base in Krzesiny.  

The F-16 Fighting Falcon, produced by U.S. defense contractor Lockheed Martin, is one of the world’s most advanced and recognizable multirole fighter aircraft. Poland has been operating these jets since 2006, with over 40 currently in service across its two main air bases in Łask and Krzesiny.

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