Sweden to deploy Patriot system to Poland to protect Ukraine aid hub

Sweden will deploy the Patriot system from the beginning of December, the Swedish Armed Forces said. It will be the country’s first deployment of Patriot on a NATO mission.

The system will be operated by personnel from Sweden’s Air Defence Regiment, with support from the Blekinge Air Wing. The Swedish force will operate under NATO command and contribute to the alliance’s Integrated Air and Missile Defence.

“As Allies, we share responsibility for protecting and defending NATO territory. At the same time, supporting Ukraine remains a priority for Sweden,” Swedish Army chief Johan Pekkari said.

“By deploying advanced capabilities from the Air Defence Regiment and Blekinge Air Wing, Sweden will strengthen NATO’s eastern flank in Poland while helping to protect the vital support effort for Ukraine.”

Around 100 Swedish personnel will be deployed to protect the logistics hub in Rzeszów, which supports deliveries of military and civilian assistance to Ukraine under NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine, or NSATU.

The mission is initially scheduled to run from the beginning of December through the end of 2026. The Swedish military said it is preparing to continue the deployment during the first half of 2027.