21 Baza Lotnictwa Taktycznego; Swidwin, October 25, 2016

The Su-22 “Fitter” in Poland; Text and Photograph's by Alex van Noye

Swidwin is currently the only air base in Europe where the Su-22 Fitter is still in operational service. Swidwin is located in northern part of Poland and is known as the 21 Baza Lotnictwa Taktycznego (21 Tactical Air Base). On this airbase there are two operational units stationed which fly the Fitter, namely the 8 Eskadra Lotnictwa Taktycznego (8.elt) and the 40 Eskadra Lotnictwa Taktycznego (40.elt). The Su-22 is a classic aircraft from the period of the Cold War and is now in the twilight of its career at the Polish Air Force. Also on this airbase was unfortunately no flying activity during the visit. Also here the dense fog was the problem; it was impossible for the aircraft in Poland to fly safely.