GE Aerospace has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Poland’s Military Aviation Works No. 2 (WZL-2), part of the state-owned PGZ Group, to jointly develop a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) program for the F110-GE-129 engine. The collaboration aims to boost Poland’s self-reliance in defense aviation maintenance and expand its industrial role within the NATO ecosystem. The agreement outlines cooperation in defining the infrastructure and operational needs for intermediate and depot-level MRO. This includes establishing advanced tooling, machining facilities, specialized training programs, and test cell upgrades at WZL-2. Once implemented, the initiative will enable Poland to perform most F110 maintenance domestically, increasing fleet readiness while minimizing logistical delays and foreign dependence. The F110 engine, known for its 29,500-pound thrust, currently powers modern fighters such as the F-15EX Eagle II and the F-16 Block 50/52 and Block 70/72 series. GE emphasizes that the engine’s design leverages Shop Replacement Units (SRUs)—modular components that allow up to 90 percent of servicing to be completed locally. This configuration reduces life-cycle costs and enhances sustainability of long-term fighter operations. The initiative comes as Poland continues its broad defense modernization strategy. In August 2025, the nation signed an agreement with the United States to upgrade its F-16 Block 52 fleet to the Block 72 variant, equipping the jets with advanced avionics and radar technology. Meanwhile, discussions remain ongoing regarding the potential acquisition of F-15EX fighters, which would also rely on the F110 engine. In a parallel development, GE Aerospace signed a separate deal in September with the Polish Military University of Technology (WAT) to create an engine training academy and explore the development of an additive manufacturing lab. These projects are intended to cultivate specialized engineering talent and introduce cutting-edge production technologies in Poland’s defense sector. Collectively, these efforts represent a growing partnership between GE Aerospace and Poland, enhancing Europe’s capacity to independently sustain high-performance fighter engines. The move strengthens Poland’s defense industrial base and contributes to NATO’s goal of distributed maintenance capability across the alliance.
