On Wednesday, 13 November this year, Deputy Prime Minister - Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz participated in the inaugural ceremony of the U.S. Aegis Ashore missile defence base in Redzikowo. Also in attendance were President of the Republic of Poland Andrzej Duda, Minister of Foreign Affairs Radosław Sikorski, US Ambassador to Poland Mark Brzeziński and Commander of the US Naval Forces in Europe and Africa Admiral Stuart Munsch, who is charge of the base.

-    The ongoing crises in Ukraine and the Middle East illustrate the vital importance of air and missile defence. The American base on Polish soil, within the structures of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation, is becoming a reality in accordance with the provisions of the Washington summit in 2024. This makes Poland part of the most effective and largest air defence in the world. Therefore, it can be considered a collective defence, as the Ambassador stated, as it is an action for the whole Alliance. When viewed in conjunction with the base in Romania, the radars in Turkey and the operations in Spain, it becomes evident that this is a significant step towards a safer, more modern world for nations that value peace, justice, goodness and beauty

- the Deputy Prime Minister stated during the opening ceremony of the base.

The Redzikowo installation, comprising the AN/SPY-1 radar, Mk 41 VLS launcher and SM-3 (Standard Missile-3) anti-ballistic missiles, forms part of the European Phased Adaptive Approach (EPAA) system, representing the United States' contribution to NATO's integrated air and missile defence system. Construction of the base commenced in 2016, with the base itself being externally protected by the Polish Base Protection Battalion.

-    The construction of the Redzikowo base commenced in 2002, with the initial concept being developed. Consequently, all subsequent US and Polish governments have pursued this objective. In his recent address, the President underscored the significance of collaborative military, economic, and diplomatic efforts between the United States and Poland. This serves as concrete evidence of our alliance. It is a tangible demonstration of the strength of this alliance. The establishment of the base in Redzikowo signifies the continuous presence of American troops, in conjunction with allied troops, on the territory of the Republic of Poland. This is a pivotal event and development in Poland's history, particularly in the post-1989 era. Poland has consistently demonstrated its reliability as an ally. This has been evident throughout our tenure within NATO, even preceding our official admission to the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation

- the head of the Ministry of Defence noted.

- I would like to express my gratitude to all those who have contributed to the construction of this base. Despite the lengthy process, the final outcome is highly effective. (…) Today, we are inaugurating a structure that will serve as a significant assurance of security. (…) Poland is now more secure, and NATO is stronger. Our values of freedom, democracy and justice will continue to prevail

- the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted.

The European Phased Adaptive Approach, which forms part of the NATO system, is primarily designed to safeguard the continent against short-, medium- and intermediate-range ballistic missiles. In addition to the base in Poland, the system comprises an Aegis Ashore system in Deveselu, Romania, an early warning radar in Kurecik, Turkey, and a command centre in Ramstein, Germany. Furthermore, a maritime version of Aegis has been installed on US Navy destroyers stationed at the Rota base in Spain.

-    The official opening of the US base in Redzikowo marks the establishment of a defence system that will protect the freedom and security of the world, likewise the US Army. (…) The presence of this missile defence shield base in Poland will serve to illustrate that this territory is no longer under the influence of Russia

- President Andrzej Duda stated

In his address at the ceremony marking the official opening of the missile shield base in Redzikowo, the President recalled Polish history, noting that there have been instances when Poland has been left to face the consequences of conflict without the support of its allies. He also observed that the United States has consistently been regarded as a key ally by the Polish people, a sentiment that has been reflected in the warm welcome extended to American military personnel.

-    In light of the aforementioned, I would like to reiterate the sentiments previously conveyed in private discussions with the presidents of the United States and American generals and admirals. If there is any individual that is discontented with the presence of American soldiers and an American base in their own country, they are cordially invited to relocate to Poland. We will always welcome you with joy

-    The President stated.