The arrival of Norwegian aircraft in Poland marked the beginning of a new
chapter for the Norwegian Air Force, as the F-35s began their first operational
mission in the region from deployed location. Prior to this, Norwegian
Lightnings had supported NATO's Air Policing mission, including over Iceland
in 2023. The Norwegian jets mission in Poland is scheduled to last until end of
February 2025.
Poland's growing strategic importance within NATO, especially after Russia's
invasion of Ukraine, has underscored the need for a permanent NATO military
presence in the region. The Polish government has long advocated for such a
presence, fearing that it would be relegated to second-tier status within the
alliance. Russia's aggression, however, has ensured that Poland now plays a
central role in NATO's defence strategy, with troops and air units stationed
across the country as a visible sign of solidarity and deterrence. Poland's close
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