Poland reaches initial operational readiness with Patriot system integration

Ambassador Brzezinski noted that Poland is the first country in the world to achieve initial operational readiness with the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Command System (IBCS), a key component of air defense command.

"Poland is the first country in the world to reach initial operational capability with the Integrated Battle Command System or IBCS. This state-of-the-art command and control system is the centrepiece of the U.S. Army's modernisation strategy for air and missile defence."

He highlighted that this technology "changes the game" and pointed out that even the U.S. military has only recently begun to implement it.

Brzezinski expressed his honor in visiting the site, where Poland's top military specialists are using the most advanced technology in the world to ensure the country's security. He added that IBCS is a cutting-edge command and control system and a crucial part of the modernization strategy for U.S. air defense and missile defense capabilities.

The U.S. ambassador also emphasized that the use of IBCS would enable the U.S. and Poland to jointly protect the skies over Central Europe, including Poland. He noted that they were taking another important step forward in the special Polish-American relationship and friendship.

"Let us not forget what is at stake. Freedom is at stake not just for Ukraine, but for Poland and America," Brzezinski said.

"We must continue to help Ukraine defend itself. We must maintain NATO's unity. We must ... we must deter Putin's aggression and Russia's aggression and if it comes to it, we must be prepared to defend every square inch of Poland," he added.

During a press conference, Minister of National Defense, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, emphasized that "this is a historic moment, a significant achievement for the operational capabilities of the Polish Armed Forces." He stated, "We are here today to announce a milestone in building the air defense system."

He added that he had just received a report from the commander of the 37th Air Defense Rocket Battalion about the initial operational readiness of the "Wisła" system and its integration with the IBCS system. As explained by the Minister, the IBCS system "is the operational brain of the Wisła system, the air defense system."

Kosiniak-Kamysz highlighted that building an air defense system is the largest and most costly challenge. He also expressed gratitude to Poland's American allies for their support and sharing of expertise. The Minister stressed that Poland, while developing its own air defense system, is learning from the ongoing war in Ukraine.

The IBCS system is currently used exclusively by the U.S. military outside of Poland. In May of the previous year, the U.S. command announced the system had achieved initial operational capability.

In September 2023, the U.S. Department of State approved the sale of the IBCS to Poland. According to the Pentagon's Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the approved package included 93 Engagement Operation Centers (EOCs) and 175 Integrated Fire Control Network (IFCN) radio lines.

The Wisła and Narew programs are central to Poland’s air and missile defense development. Ultimately, the system will consist of three layers. The highest tier comprises medium-range Wisła systems, including Patriot batteries with a range of approximately 150 km. The second layer is the Narew program, which involves acquiring short-range systems effective up to around 25 km. The lowest tier includes the Pilica systems and upgraded Pilica+ units, designed to intercept enemy missiles, drones, and aircraft within a range of a few kilometers.