Poland F-16 Crash: A Look at the Fighter Jet’s History, Crashes & Legacy
The tragic crash of a Polish Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon during rehearsals for AirSHOW Radom 2025 has once again brought the spotlight to one of the world’s most famous fighter jets. On August 28, 2025, the aircraft, flown by Major Maciej “SLAB” Krakowian of the elite F-16 Tiger Demo Team, went down while performing a maneuver and exploded in flames on the runway. Sadly, the pilot lost his life, leading authorities to cancel the highly anticipated airshow.
Birth of the F-16 Fighting Falcon
The F-16 took its first flight in 1974, designed as a lightweight, highly maneuverable jet that became a backbone of modern air forces. (Photo: US Air Force)
Global Deployment of the F-16
Over 4,600 F-16s have been built, serving in the air forces of more than 25 countries across the globe. (Photo: US Air Force)
Speed and Power of the F-16
Capable of speeds over Mach 2 and advanced maneuverability, the F-16 remains one of the fastest single-engine fighters ever built. (Photo: US Air Force)
Combat Role of the F-16
The F-16 carries missiles, bombs, and a 20mm Vulcan cannon, proving its effectiveness in both air-to-air and air-to-ground roles. (Photo: US Air Force)
F-16 in Combat Missions
The F-16 has seen action in conflicts like the Gulf War, Balkans, Iraq, and Afghanistan, proving its combat reliability. (Photo: Sławek Hesja Krajewski (via AIRCOM)
Crash History of the F-16
Since 1978, over 670 F-16 jets have been lost in crashes worldwide, caused by mechanical failures, accidents, and combat. (Photo: US Air Force)
Polish Air Force and the F-16
Poland operates a fleet of F-16s, forming a vital part of NATO’s air defense and showcasing U.S. aviation technology in Europe. (Photo: X)
Poland F-16 Airshow Crash 2025
On August 28, 2025, a Polish F-16 Tiger Demo jet crashed during rehearsal for the Radom Airshow, killing Major Maciej Krakowian. (Photo: US Air Force)
Legacy of the F-16 Fighter Jet
Despite crashes, the F-16 remains one of the most successful fighter jets ever built, expected to serve globally until 2040+. (Photo: US Air Force)
