On Wednesday, 25 January, 350 German troops and the first German contingent of Patriot systems arrived in Poland. 

https://twitter.com/nexta_tv/status/1617538579189858311

The German army (Bundeswehr) explained that the systems include over ten elements, including guiding units, radars, guiding, and launchers, which can hold from four to sixteen missiles each.

On the Bundeswehr’s website, we read that the whole undertaking is aimed to “increase German contribution in solidarity with NATO allies in Eastern Europe” and that “the German army will utilise the Patriot systems to strengthen integrated NATO air-defence in the Eastern Flank of the [Transatlantic] Alliance.”

https://twitter.com/TVPWorld_com/status/1617502656221843456?s=20&t=XKf-HTxYM7Sg12s9fU5jBQ

“The mission duration is closely coordinated with our allied partner Poland,” further explained. 

Germany offered to strengthen Poland’s air defence capabilities after a stray missile, likely accidentally fired by Ukrainian forces, exploded near the Polish village of Przewodów back in November, killing two people.

The sending of weaponry took place in a particular context. Until now, Poland’s western neighbour was quite prudent in dealing with the conflict raging in Eastern Europe. 

https://twitter.com/mtracey/status/1618217167388053504?s=20&t=AM7VHdzvwqjqVZGf5u8zVw

In the last few weeks, the tone has indeed changed. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock recently stated that Ukraine’s allies — including Germany — are “fighting a war against Russia”. 

Image: picture alliance/dpa

Author: Sébastien Meuwissen