Sweden to deploy Patriot missiles in Poland to protect key Ukraine aid hub

Sweden will send Patriot air defence systems to Poland to protect the strategically important Rzeszów-Jasionka airport, a key transit point for military and civilian aid to Ukraine. Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson announced that Swedish forces will take over tasks currently carried out by the Netherlands, marking a significant step in Sweden’s growing commitment to NATO’s eastern flank. Colonel Sofia Westermark, commander of the Swedish air defence regiment, described the mission as the most complex Sweden has undertaken as a NATO member. She noted that the location is exposed to threats from both air and ground. The airport handles around 18,000 tonnes of equipment monthly, with more than 80% of military donations to Ukraine crossing Polish territory.

Growing Swedish role in regional security

Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz welcomed Sweden’s decision and thanked the Netherlands for its previous support. Since early October, Swedish Gripen fighter jets have been participating in NATO’s mission to protect Polish airspace, including safeguarding logistics routes for aid to Ukraine. Sweden joined NATO in 2024 and has been gradually increasing its involvement in operations on the eastern flank. Stockholm cited rising threats to Europe’s security and more frequent violations of NATO airspace as reasons for the increased military presence. The current defence of Rzeszów-Jasionka includes Dutch Patriot systems, Polish Mała Narew short-range air defence, and iLauncher systems armed with CAMM missiles.