Poland, Baltic states, and US conduct joint air defense exercises
Photo: Poland, the Baltic states and the United States conduct joint air defense exercises (media.defense.gov)
Poland, the United States, and the Baltic states are conducting an international air force exercise called Astral Knight-24, according to the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces.
The main purpose of the exercise is to expand the integration of the IAMD system (integrated air and missile defense system) and build a command and control architecture in the air domain.
The exercise program also provides for the integration of air defense forces and means in real-life scenarios and real-time virtual visualization.
The General Staff added that officers of the 183rd Aviation Operations Group and the Air Operations Center play a key role in the planning and execution of tasks. They systematically take measures to enhance the operational capabilities of air defense on NATO's eastern flank.
Strengthening the air defense of NATO's eastern flank
Earlier, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that the European Union should mobilize at least 100 billion euros for defense and create a common air defense system. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen also emphasized that the EU should “restore, replenish and transform” its armed forces.
Warsaw has previously stated that it wants to join the European Sky Shield initiative, which currently includes 21 countries.
