Poland and Norway strengthen NATO's eastern flank - Strategic cooperation on new terms

On February 10, 2025, a key Polish-Norwegian meeting took place at the 31st Tactical Air Base in Poznań-Krzesiny, focusing on defense cooperation and the strategic strengthening of NATO's eastern flank. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz and Norwegian Minister of Defense Tore Sandvik emphasized the importance of the partnership between the two countries and the growing significance of air force interoperability.

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11 february 2025 | 08:24 | Source: Gazeta Morska | Prepared by: Kamil Kusier | Print

fot. Krzysztof Niedziela / MON

Norwegian F-35s over Poland – NATO’s Allied Shield

Since January 8, Norwegian F-35 fighter jets have been on a mission in Poland as part of NATO's IAMD (Integrated Air & Missile Defence) operation. Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed gratitude for the presence of Norwegian troops, highlighting that their deployment not only enhances air defense capabilities but also represents close allied cooperation.

- Norway is our extremely important strategic partner in security matters. The best proof of this is the presence of Norwegian soldiers protecting Polish airspace. On behalf of all citizens of the Republic of Poland, we sincerely thank them, said Kosiniak-Kamysz.

New fefense agreement – a key to future cooperation

During the meeting, ministers adopted an action plan for 2025, which includes the signing of a new agreement regulating future joint defense initiatives. As Poland prepares to receive its own F-35s, it aims to fully utilize Norway’s experience in operating these aircraft. Joint training and technological exchanges are planned to enhance Poland’s air force combat capabilities and operational integration with allied forces.

- As border states aware of Russia’s neo-imperial ambitions, we can effectively respond and cooperate on security matters, the Deputy Prime Minister emphasized.

Polish Defense Industry offer for Norway

Beyond operational matters, discussions also focused on the cooperation of both countries’ defense industries. Poland plans to expand arms exports and establish new partnerships, offering modern missile systems such as Piorun. Joint defense procurement under a consortium of Baltic states is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Europe’s defense sector.

- We are satisfied with our cooperation and the purchase of the best equipment from our Norwegian partners, for which we are sincerely grateful. However, we also want to sell our equipment. I hope the European Union will recognize the potential of these weapons and our effective collaboration, said Kosiniak-Kamysz.

Joint defense – shared responsibility

The presence of Norwegian air forces in Poland not only strengthens air defense but also demonstrates NATO’s commitment to its deterrence and defense strategy on the eastern flank. Poland and Norway, as countries with key interests in the Baltic Sea and Arctic regions, jointly define the directions of future allied cooperation. Enhancing interoperability, developing combat capabilities, and joint security efforts illustrate that the strategic partnership between the two nations is taking on new dimensions in light of contemporary geopolitical challenges.

Kamil Kusier
redaktor naczelny

nato polska norwegia ministerstwo obrony narodowej władysław kosiniak-kamysz przemysł zbrojeniowy