The U.S. Army Alpha Battery supported the 28th International Defense Industry Exhibition MSPO 2020 with a M901 Patriot Launching Station for the first time in history. On 08 to 10 September, Alpha Battery, 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery Regiment Soldiers showcased the Patriot Launching System to 13 countries including over 50,000 visitors from around the world. This expo is held biennially and exhibits international land, air-land and homeland defense to countries within the alliance in support of full spectrum joint and combined contingency operations with its coalition partners.
“The Trade Show was beneficial in that it showcased the capabilities of our Allies and Partners and strengthens our ties as we continue to build strong relationships. Our participation in the Tradeshow allows us to demonstrate our commitment to Allies and Partner Nations. It gives the individual Soldiers an opportunity to be in the same environment as that partner,” said U.S. Army 1st Lt. Rehema Kabiru, Alpha Battery, 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery Regiment Executive Officer. 1st Lt. Rehema Kabiru along with, Sgt. James Taylor, Sgt. Berrio Marcelo, Spc. Griffin McGinty, and Pfc. James Wright arrived in Targi Kielce to work with organizers from the U.S. Embassy in Warsaw as well as many distinguished visitors.
Soldiers from Alpha Battery, 5th Battalion, 7th Air Defense Artillery Regiment provided advanced technical assistance through the use of static displays demonstrating their expertise and professionalism. Many of the topics and technical guidance discussed were centered on the distinctive characteristics of the Patriot Launching Station, where a diverse audience gained a better understanding of the capabilities of the Patriot Missile System through interactions with vendors and other expo participants. The Polish military recently purchased the Patriot and took the time to view it closer in anticipation of the arrival for their equipment.
In November 2017, the U.S. State Department approved a $10.5 billion sale of four Patriot missile defense systems to Poland. However, the high cost for the systems has caused some hesitation in Poland. On March 28, 2018 the Ministry of National Defence signed the deal worth $4.75 billion for two Patriot Configuration 3+ batteries for deliveries in 2022. The purchase includes Northrop Grumman’s IBCS Battle Command System and four fire units equipped with four AN/MPQ-65 radars, 16 launchers, four Engagement Control Stations, six Engagement Operation Centers, 12 IFCN Relays and 208 PAC-3 MSE missiles. In the Phase II Poland plans to order six further batteries equipped with an AESA radar and Raytheon’s SkyCeptor interceptors.
