Patriot systems to be deployed near Lublin for the first time: Poland to strengthen its military presence near the Ukrainian border
The plans also include unmanned units and an army aviation base
Poland plans to increase its military presence in the Lublin region, which borders Ukraine. The buildup will include new army units, air defense, unmanned systems, and military aviation. Existing military facilities in the region are also set to be expanded. These plans were announced by Polish Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
The minister said the following about the decision to deploy Patriot batteries:
“Several weeks ago, I decided to deploy Patriot batteries in the Lublin region. I intend to visit the service members stationed here who are responsible for protecting the region. This is the first time Patriot batteries have been deployed in the Lublin area.”
Polish authorities have already decided to expand the structure of the Armed Forces in the region. In particular, the plans include:
- forming a new mechanized brigade;
- stationing a brigade of unmanned systems;
- stationing a battalion;
- adding an air defense unit equipped with Patriot systems.
The plans to deploy units and develop military infrastructure concern several towns:
- The 18th Mechanized Brigade will be stationed in Biłgoraj. Air defense units are also planned for the town.
- A unit of unmanned systems will be established in Łuków.
- An army helicopter aviation base will be set up in Świdnik.
- The military facility in Sobieszyn, which already houses a training center of the Polish Air Force Academy, is to be expanded.
- Additional army helicopters are planned to be stationed at Lublin Airport.
The new buildup will add to the considerable Polish army forces already present in the Lublin region. The following units are currently stationed there:
- the 19th Lublin Mechanized Brigade, equipped with M1A1 Abrams tanks;
- the 2nd Reconnaissance Regiment;
- the 18th Anti-Aircraft Regiment;
- the 2nd Lublin Territorial Defence Brigade.
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