Germany to deploy Patriot air defense system to Türkiye
Germany will send a Patriot air defense unit to Türkiye in the coming weeks, officials said on May 18, as part of a NATO plan to strengthen protection along the alliance’s southeastern flank.
Germany’s armed forces, the Bundeswehr, will set up a Patriot “Air and Missile Defense Task Force,” which will work closely with the Turkish armed forces, the German Defense Ministry said in a statement.
“Germany is taking on more responsibility within NATO,” Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said, adding that the German Patriot unit and around 150 soldiers will replace a U.S. unit currently deployed in Türkiye.
“Our air force is doing great, internationally respected work,” Pistorius said. Referring to previous deployments, he added: “With their professionalism they will make an important contribution to protecting NATO airspace.”
