The German mission in Rzeszów-Jasionka is almost complete. The tasks of the Germans will be taken over by the Dutch. In addition to 2 Patriot sets that have so far secured the airport area, they will besides introduce NASAMS air defence systems and drones. “The capabilities of anti-aircraft and anti-missile defence in this area will be strengthened,” says Colonel Jacek Goryszewski, spokesperson for DORSZ.
Initially, the German mission in Rzeszów was to last until the end of June of this year, but due to the situation in the region, at the request of the Polish side, it was extended for almost six months. About 200 soldiers were stationed in Jasionka, who brought with them 2 Patriot anti-aircraft batteries from the 21st Luftwaffe anti-aircraft rocket group from Sanitz, Pomerania.
As Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence stressed, announcing the start of the mission, the German presence in Rzeszów was part of wider efforts to strengthen the east flank of NATO. The precedence was to defend the logistics hub in Jasionka, which passes almost 95% of Western support for Ukraine.
– The Dutch contingent will take precisely the same capacity as the German mission so far. We are talking about the same Patriot strategy set, while the Dutch are besides introducing their own resources, including NASAMS systems and Counter UAS anti-drone kits," said Colonel Jacek Goryszewski, spokesperson for the Operations Command of Types of Armed Forces.
As he emphasizes, this means that the anti-aircraft and anti-missile defence capabilities in the Rzeszów-Jasionka area will be strengthened. Due to the increase in equipment, the number of soldiers will besides increase, but the exact number is not disclosed.
“The Dutch mission will begin in the coming days, but for safety reasons we do not specify a circumstantial date,” says the spokesman. It besides adds that the change of quotas will not origin a minute break in anti-aircraft protection. “The rotation has been planned in specified a way that both teams “completion” in their activities, ensuring the continuity of the on-call and full safety”, stressed Colonel Goryszewski.
The departure of German soldiers from Jasionka does not mean the end of Bundeswehr's commitment to the protection of Polish airspace. From 6 December German Eurofighter Typhoon fighters start on work in 22 Tactical Aviation Base in Malbork. They will support border patrolling with Russia and the Baltic Sea area. 5 fighters were sent to Poland, and 150 staff will handle them.
“This is an component of strengthening the protection of the east flank of NATO, akin to the Polish missions “Orlik” in the Baltic States, which do not have their own combat aviation,” emphasises the spokesperson for DORSZ. The German mission to Malbork will proceed until the end of March 2026.
