They were already doing that. With the F-35s(as far as I know) to replace them. But they wanted to keep the MiG-29s until the planes arrived, otherwise it would leave a large gap on their defense. And I think, from what I can understand as I have been following this since it was first rumoured to be happening, that they weren't willing to depart with the planes that happily. But I think, hopefully, Poland can get a good deal out of this. They do deserve good planes, as Poland is a very based and a very good country. So what they will get out of this, I still don't know... A fast track to F-16s block 50s or 70s? Maybe. But that will leave Taiwan in the back, with China increasingly fondling them in their no-no place. Maybe some already in the inventory and flying for USAF. But those also received customization specific for USAF, and they will need to be customized to Poland. But it shouldn't take long. Albeit that will leave a gap for the USAF. I do wonder what they will fill it up with.

I am amazed at their purchase of the superior M1A2 SEPv3 tanks. Those are massively upgraded to the latest in technology.