The Polish navy has taken delivery of seven new aircraft and two upgraded helicopters as part of the force's changes to reflect the country joining NATO in 1999.
In mid-January the Polish naval air arm received two PZL-Mielec M-28E Bryza ecological monitoring aircraft, two M-28TD transports, a PZL-Swidnik W-3RM Anakonda search and rescue helicopter, and two Mil Mi-17 Hip transport machines. It also took delivery of two Mil Mi-14PLHaze anti-submarine warfare helicopters, which have been upgraded by the aircraft maintenance plant in Lodz.
The M-28Es, Anakonda and Mi-17s will join the 1st air squadron at Gdynia Babie Doly, while the Mi-14s join the 2nd squadron at Darlowo and the M-28TDs join the 3rd squadron at Siemirowice.
The plan includes the operation of four Kaman SH-2 Seasprites that would equip two ex-US Navy frigates, one of which is in service and the second of which was signed for earlier this month.
The navy could also take upgraded Sukhoi Su-22 Fitters from the air force to replace elderly Mikoyan MiG-21 Fishbeds that will become increasingly difficult to support as the air force retires its MiG-21s over the next few years.
Another plan is to take PZL-Mielec I-22s despite problems with the type identified by the air force. These would replace reconnaissance capable PZLTS-11 Iskras, but would offer twin-engined safety.
Source: Flight International
