After ten years of deployment, “the Patriot contingent continues to contribute to ballistic missile defence in Türkiye”

• In addition to this contribution, the Spanish military personnel conducts operational collaborations with the Turkish Air Force to enhance their readiness and interoperability, according to Lieutenant Colonel Fernando García-Reparaz Pardo de Santayana, Commander of the A/T XXI contingent

At the end of December 2024, Spain's deployment in Türkiye began as part of NATO’s air defence mission in this allied country, ‘Support to Türkiye’ (A/T). At that time, the Patriot anti-aircraft artillery battery was located at Adana airport, until its relocation in 2016 to Incirlik Air Base. There, Spanish and Turkish military personnel live and work together, maintaining a strong and close relationship. ‘We are grateful to the Spanish for their support whenever we need it’ says General Kemal Güleç, commander of the air base. ‘We hope this collaboration and friendship continue for many years to come’.

As the tenth anniversary of the Patriot contingent's deployment in Türkiye nears, Lieutenant Colonel Fernando García-Reparaz Pardo de Santayana, commander of the A/T XXI contingent, reviews the key milestones and the current status of the mission, which underscores Spain's ongoing commitment and solidarity in support of NATO's collective defence.

How has the A/T operation evolved over these ten years?

Like any other military deployment, the evolution over the past ten years has been characterised by the optimisation of resources and the enhancement of our troops' welfare. The overarching focus has been on maintaining full operational capability. Perhaps the most significant milestone was the relocation of the Patriot anti-aircraft artillery battery from Adana Airport to the current facilities at Incirlik Air Base with the A/T III contingent. Furthermore, I would like to emphasise that the continuous efforts of each relief have enabled us to adapt the facilities and equipment, ensuring operational readiness, improving quality of life, and strengthening our relationship with the military and organisations of the Host Nation, Türkiye, as well as with US personnel.

What missions does the A/T XXI contingent currently carry out?

The Patriot Unit continues to fulfil its original mission: contributing to the defence against ballistic missiles in Türkiye, specifically protecting the city of Adana. Additionally, to increase the unit’s training and preparation, we engage in joint air operations with Turkish Air Force aircraft, which have proven highly beneficial for enhancing our readiness and interoperability with allied forces.

How is the operational status of the radars and launchers?

Undoubtedly, the thorough control and maintenance of radar and launcher equipment is crucial to keeping them in optimal condition. Prevention and detection are key to ensuring the functionality of the various systems, which in turn guarantees the success of the mission. The radar is designed for ballistic missile detection, with a wide range for locating and tracking trajectories; its age requires meticulous monitoring of all the subsystems that compose it to ensure constant operational readiness. In this regard, the maintenance teams, both organic and intermediate, as well as the logistics personnel, provide an essential service to to ensure all Patriot Battery equipment remains in perfect working order.

What is life like at Incirlik Air Base?

Life at the air base is peaceful and comfortable, with a steady, well-organised work rhythm that is essential for ensuring the mission’s structure and operations remain firmly established. There is a shared sense of responsibility that fosters order and ensures harmonious coexistence with military personnel from various nations. Despite our linguistic and cultural differences, cohesion and camaraderie continue to grow, particularly with Türkiye. Our Turkish hosts offer unwavering support, both in logistical and welfare matters, and our strong relationship is a key factor in the success of the mission.

Finally, what would you highlight about your unit, the A/T XXI contingent?

Without a doubt, the Patriot contingent continues to contribute to ballistic missile defence in Türkiye due to the professional competence and human qualities of all the military personnel under my command. Their unwavering commitment, perseverance, and dedication have enabled the development of effective solutions for the smooth progression of the mission. Together, they have fostered a working environment that is both highly efficient and conducive to well-being. It is a true honour to lead this unit, and their constant drive for self-improvement is the primary guarantee for achieving the set objectives.