Sweden plans to deploy a Patriot air defence unit to Poland from December to protect a NATO logistics hub used to deliver military and civilian support to Ukraine.

Axar.az reports, citing the Swedish government, that the unit will protect the logistics hub and help ensure that vital supplies reach Ukraine. It will operate under NATO Air Command.

“For the second time, Sweden is participating with Gripen fighter jets in support of NATO’s operation to protect NATO’s logistics hub in Poland. Sweden will also, starting December, provide the Patriot air defence system,” Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said.

Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said Sweden’s contribution was important in ensuring that military and civilian support reaches Ukraine, while also strengthening NATO’s deterrence and defence.

Defence Minister Pal Jonson said repeated violations of allied airspace and Russian attempts to disrupt support for Ukraine underscored the importance of protecting the logistics hub and NATO’s eastern flank.

Sweden has previously contributed to several NATO operations aimed at strengthening the alliance’s eastern flank and protecting military aid to Ukraine.