Poland needs a new fighter jet. It cannot repeat the mistakes made with the F-16 and F-35

Poland has received informal approval to join the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) as an observer, a joint project of Japan, the UK, and Italy. The next step involves submitting a formal application, pending government decision. Despite acquiring F-35A jets, Poland is considering sixth-generation aircraft due to the aging F-16 fleet. The observer status allows access to information but lacks the benefits of full participation, such as technology transfer and industrial benefits. Canada's experience in GCAP illustrates that observer nations gain insights without decision-making power or production roles. Poland's past military purchases have often lacked substantial industrial offsets, raising concerns about future acquisitions.