Poland raises readiness as Swedish troops prepare NATO mission

Polish authorities have warned of an increased risk of Russian sabotage in border areas as Swedish soldiers prepare for a NATO air-defence mission in Poland, SVT reports. The heightened security situation could affect the Swedish operation, its commander, Michael Mattsson, said.

Polish media report that police and military personnel have been sent to areas considered at risk. Mattsson said Sweden was in close contact with Polish authorities and other organisations, and could adapt its plans in dialogue with local security bodies.

The Swedish mission, known as ANP 27, is due to begin around the turn of November and December. About 100 soldiers and officers from the Air Defence Regiment Lv6 in Halmstad will deploy the Patriot air-defence system to protect a logistics base in Rzeszów from Russian air attacks.

The base supports aid to Ukraine, with people, equipment and supplies moving in and out of the country, Mattsson said.

NATO cannot rule out the possibility of a Russian missile attack on the base, while Swedish personnel could also face sabotage attempts. Mattsson said the troops were training for threats including subversion, espionage and sabotage, and preparing protective measures such as technical surveillance, monitoring personnel and working with others at the base.