Commander pilot Bartłomiej Lipiński appointed Head of 44th Naval Aviation Base in Polish Navy

A formal military standard handover ceremony was held in Siemirowice, where Commander Pilot Bartłomiej Lipiński officially assumed command of the 44th Naval Aviation Base, one of the Polish Navy’s key aviation units.

aviation navy nato pomerania west pomerania news

15 may 2026 | 16:45 | Source: Gazeta Morska | Prepared by: Kamil Kusier | Print

fot. Aleksandra Kajzer / GBLMW

The ceremony took place at the military airfield in Siemirowice, home to the fixed-wing aviation component of the 44th Naval Aviation Base, responsible for maritime patrol, Baltic monitoring, and operational support for the Polish Navy.

Together with the helicopter component in Darłowo, which maintains search and rescue readiness and other operational capabilities, the unit forms a critical part of Poland’s maritime security architecture.

Standard handover ceremony

The military standard was formally handed over by Deputy Commander Commander Krzysztof Szwajkowski. As emphasized in the unit’s official statement, the standard remains a symbol of honor, loyalty, and service.

- The standard is not only a piece of fabric – it is a symbol of honor, loyalty, and the highest values to which we dedicate our service to the homeland - said Senior Chief Petty Officer Piotr Skalski.

He also highlighted the symbolic nature of the ceremony.

- This is a solemn moment that connects tradition with new energy in command - added Senior Chief Petty Officer Piotr Skalski.

A new chapter

Commander Pilot Bartłomiej Lipiński’s appointment marks a new chapter for the 44th Naval Aviation Base, whose responsibilities extend beyond strictly military operations.

In addition to supporting naval aviation and operational readiness, the unit contributes to maritime surveillance, reconnaissance, and through its Darłowo helicopter component search and rescue preparedness over the Baltic Sea.

As maritime security in the Baltic region continues to gain strategic importance, the role of Poland’s naval aviation units remains increasingly significant in both defense and operational response systems.