Polish Patriot Air Defense Systems to Strengthen Defenses Near Ukraine Border

Poland plans to deploy Patriot air defense systems near its border with Ukraine.

Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced this.

The systems are expected to be placed on combat duty in the Lublin and Subcarpathian voivodeships, which are most exposed to the consequences of events along the border and Russian attacks on Ukraine.

One Patriot battery is expected to be deployed as part of the operation. The decision to deploy it was made several weeks ago.

In addition to directly strengthening air defense capabilities, Poland is expanding its military presence in the area. The most significant changes concern the 18th Mechanized Division.

A motorized infantry battalion is being formed in Biłgoraj, where air defense units will also be stationed. In Łuków, a drone systems brigade is planned for gradual deployment, comprising units operating various types of drones.

Additionally, Poland plans to station M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks that it is receiving for units of the 18th Mechanized Division in Kraśnik. Part of the 18th Mechanized Brigade is also planned to be stationed in Poniatowa.

Another key area is aviation. Poland plans to establish a base for AH-64E Apache attack helicopters near Lublin Airport in Świdnik.

Świdnik is one of three planned locations for Poland’s fleet of 96 Apache helicopters. The Polish defense minister said land-related arrangements for the new base are expected to be finalized by the end of 2026.

Patriot Systems in Poland

As of October 2026, the Polish Army operates two Patriot batteries under the first phase of the Wisła air defense program. Together, they include 16 M903 launchers and four AN/MPQ-65 radars. Both batteries are assigned to the 3rd Warsaw Air Defense Brigade.

Poland has also ordered six additional Patriot batteries under the second phase of the Wisła air defense program. The order includes 48 M903 launchers, with deliveries of the main components scheduled for 2027–2029.

Once the order is fulfilled, the Polish Armed Forces will have a total of eight Patriot batteries and 64 launchers.