Defence Policy
German-Nordic Air Defence Over Rzeszów
Photo. Forsvarsdepartment/X
The Norwegian authorities have announced plans to send approximately 100 soldiers, air defence systems, and F-35 fighter jets to Poland. „We are standing by our commitments within NATO,” said the head of Norway’s Ministry of Defense.
“Ukraine still urgently needs military support, and Poland is the most critical logistics hub,” stated Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram. He also emphasized that Norway will take responsibility for the air defense of the “most important transportation hub for civilian and military supplies from other countries to Ukraine.”
Norwegian forces will be part of the contingent responsible for securing the airspace over the airport in Rzeszów. Minister Gram noted that 100 soldiers, NASAMS systems, and F-35 fighter jets will be deployed for this mission, which is set to last from December until Easter.
“Poland is making enormous efforts to ensure that both civilian and military supplies reach Ukraine. The airport also serves as a central point for medical evacuation operations, which are coordinated by Norway,” Gram said. “Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has demonstrated the importance of air defense, and Norway’s contribution in Poland is highly valued. We are doing this primarily for Ukraine and Poland, but it also underscores our adherence to NATO commitments,” he added.
Earlier reports indicated that Germany will also send a Patriot battery to Poland to safeguard the logistics hub supporting Ukraine. This system will likely replace the American components that have been stationed in Rzeszów since 2022.