Norway announced it will deploy F-35 fighter jets, NASAMS air defense systems, and approximately 100 military personnel to Poland as part of NATO's integrated air and missile defense efforts starting in December 2024.
The Norwegian forces will protect the airspace above Rzeszów airport in Poland, a key logistics hub facilitating both civilian and military aid deliveries to Ukraine. The mission will operate within Polish airspace from December through Easter as part of NATO's rotational defense arrangements.
"Poland is making a tremendous effort to ensure that both civilian and military supplies reach Ukraine. The airport is also central to the medical evacuation efforts that Norway is responsible for," stated Norwegian Minister of Defence Bjørn Arild Gram.
The deployment comes at a critical time as Russia escalates the war with Ukraine continuing to rely heavily on Western military support channeled through Poland. The Rzeszów airport serves as the primary transit point for international aid reaching Ukrainian forces.
The Norwegian Defense Minister emphasized that the mission demonstrates Norway's commitment to NATO while supporting Ukraine and Poland. He also assured that Norway's national security and operational capabilities will remain intact during the deployment period.
This initiative represents part of NATO's broader efforts to protect supply lines delivering military and humanitarian assistance to Ukraine as it defends against Russian military actions. The Norwegian contribution adds modern air defense capabilities to safeguard this strategic transportation hub.
The deployment highlights Norway's active role in supporting Ukraine's defense needs while strengthening NATO's eastern flank through multinational cooperation and military presence.