A potential military exchange between Kyiv and Warsaw is taking shape, but both sides remain cautious about the terms. The proposal could redefine how allies cooperate on defense technology.

Ukraine continues to insist on receiving Polish MiG-29 fighter jets while simultaneously offering Warsaw cooperation in the field of unmanned technologies. This was stated during a press conference by Poland’s Minister of Defense, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.

According to him, dialogue between the countries is ongoing, and the Ukrainian side has already presented specific proposals that предусматривают the transfer of drones to Poland over the next two years in exchange for the aircraft.

So this exchange is a real possibility, but it must be an exchange, not just a transfer from Poland. We are very cautious about this

– Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz

Earlier, Polish media reported that after unsuccessful previous agreements with Kyiv, Poland’s Ministry of Defense had considered a scenario of gradually phasing out the MiG-29 from service.

Consultations on arms exchange

As early as December 2025, the Polish General Staff confirmed consultations with Ukraine regarding the possible transfer of fighter jets for the needs of the Defense Forces. In response, the Ukrainian side offered access to certain technologies in the field of unmanned systems and missile weapons.

Currently, Poland has several dozen MiG-29 aircraft in service, which were received in the early 1990s after the reunification of Germany. These aircraft remain part of the country’s air defense system. At the same time, in the future, Warsaw plans to gradually replace them with more modern F-16 and FA-50 aircraft.

The issue of transferring fighter jets to Ukraine is being considered in a broader context of supporting Kyiv by its allies and strengthening security on NATO’s eastern flank.

Different positions and further negotiations

Discussions of the agreement have been accompanied by a number of contradictions. Poland’s President Karol Nawrocki initially stated that he had not received information about a possible transfer of the aircraft, suggesting that “there may have been some misunderstanding.” He later expressed support for such a step.

Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz had also previously emphasized that the transfer of MiG-29s would not take place without reaching agreements on technology exchange, particularly in the field of drones.

As of now, negotiations between Ukraine and Poland are ongoing. The parties are trying to agree on a format of cooperation that will allow for a mutually beneficial exchange and take into account the interests of both states.