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Poland to transfer 2 MiG-29 jets to Ukraine in exchange for drone technology, Polish official says
Poland and Ukraine have agreed to create joint working groups on drone and anti-drone technology, while continuing talks on a possible transfer of two Polish MiG-29 fighter jets. Poland’s deputy defence minister said arrangements were being finalised in exchange for access to Ukrainian technology, making the proposal part of broader military cooperation between the neighbours.
The announcement followed several months of negotiations and came during a Polish delegation’s visit to Kyiv. Poland had considered transferring its remaining MiG-29s in December 2025, but talks stalled in June after Poland’s defence minister said Ukraine had not met its commitment to share drone technology. Poland previously sent Ukraine 14 MiG-29s in spring 2023; the Soviet-designed fourth-generation aircraft is used by both Ukrainian and Russian forces.
In short
- Poland and Ukraine are discussing a two-jet MiG-29 transfer.
- The proposed exchange involves Ukrainian drone technology.
- A previous disagreement over technology sharing stalled talks.
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The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Transferring the jets could give Ukraine additional aircraft to support its defence against Russia, while access to Ukrainian drone expertise could strengthen Poland’s own defences. Linking the transfer to joint work and technology sharing may also make the arrangement a practical form of cooperation that benefits both countries.
The case against
Poland could reasonably prioritise retaining its remaining MiG-29s for its own readiness, particularly while regional security remains uncertain. Tying their transfer to access to Ukrainian technology also raises questions about whether the exchange offers sufficient, clearly defined value and whether Poland should rely on capabilities that Ukraine may be unable to share promptly.
Explained simply
Poland and Ukraine are neighbouring countries that have worked together on defence since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Poland has supplied Ukraine with military equipment, while Ukraine has developed drones and systems designed to counter them.
The MiG-29 is a Soviet-designed fighter aircraft used by both Ukraine and Russia. Poland has already sent 14 of its MiG-29s to Ukraine, and the two countries have discussed further transfers alongside cooperation on drone technology.
The talks reflect a wider effort to share military equipment and expertise between the neighbours. Poland has sought access to Ukrainian drone technology, while Ukraine needs support for its defence against Russian forces.
Europe Russia-Ukraine War World