Speaking at the 3rd Warsaw Air Defense Missile Brigade in Sochaczew, Kosiniak-Kamysz said the operational launch of the U.S.-made Patriot batteries under the “Wisła” program represents a “historic moment” for Poland’s national defense capabilities.
“This is the realization of our integrated air defense system—against missiles, aircraft, and drones,” he said, adding that 48 more Patriot launchers are expected to arrive in Poland between 2027 and 2029.
The “Wisła” program, Poland’s top-tier air defense initiative, is built around Patriot missile systems, LTAMDS radars, and the IBCS command network. Future phases will integrate systems like the F-35 into a unified air defense architecture.
U.S. Ambassador to Poland Thomas Rose, who attended the ceremony, praised Poland’s leadership in air defense.
“Even the United States does not yet have a fully operational IBCS-based system like Poland,” he said, calling Warsaw “the first city in the world fully protected by an integrated air defense command system.”
“Poland is now in charge. No one should mess with Poland,” Rose added. “If they do, it would be foolish.”
Rose warned against complacency, emphasizing the security threats in Poland’s immediate neighborhood: “Poland cannot afford wishful thinking—the threats are too close.”
(jh)
Source: PAP