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Spain Marks a Decade of Patriot System Deployment in Türkiye Under NATO Command.
On January 26, 2025, Spain marked the tenth anniversary of its participation in the NATO Support to Türkiye mission, an initiative aimed at strengthening Türkiye’s air defense under NATO operations. Since 2015, Spanish armed forces have maintained a continuous presence in Adana with a PATRIOT surface-to-air missile battery, operating under the command of the Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) and the operational control of Allied Air Command.
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The PATRIOT system, designed to intercept and neutralize various airborne threats, plays a crucial role in this mission (Picture source: NATO)
This ongoing commitment reflects Spain’s active role within NATO and its contribution to the collective security of its allies. Over the past ten years, the mission has required 21 rotations and involved nearly 3,000 Spanish military personnel, deployed successively to support the protection of Turkish airspace. NATO Support to Türkiye was established to enhance Türkiye’s air defense capabilities with the PATRIOT missile system, an integral component of NATO’s air defense network, designed to counter aerial and ballistic threats.
The mission traces its origins to 2013 when the Turkish government requested assistance from NATO due to security risks stemming from the conflict in Syria. Following a decision by NATO foreign ministers, the United States, Germany, and the Netherlands deployed PATRIOT batteries to counter ballistic threats. In 2015, Spain took over the deployment, stationing a unit in Adana, where it continues its mission today.
Spain currently operates three PATRIOT missile batteries. The first was acquired second-hand from Germany in 2004, followed by two more in 2014, enhancing Spain’s capability to meet NATO air defense requirements. One of these batteries has been permanently stationed in Türkiye since 2015, ensuring continuous surveillance and protection of Turkish airspace. To further strengthen these capabilities, Spain received authorization in October 2023 to acquire four additional PATRIOT PAC-3+ systems for €2.67 billion. This acquisition aligns with efforts to modernize air defense systems and address evolving threats.
The PATRIOT system, designed to intercept and neutralize various airborne threats, plays a crucial role in this mission. It includes a passive electronically scanned array radar (AN/MPQ-53 or AN/MPQ-65), an AN/MSQ-104 control station, launchers mounted on M860 semi-trailers towed by M983 HEMTT trucks, and missiles housed in launch containers. Its ability to detect, track, and engage enemy targets makes it a key asset in safeguarding Turkish airspace. With a range of 70 km and an interception altitude exceeding 24 km, the PATRIOT system is capable of countering tactical ballistic missiles, aircraft, and unmanned aerial threats. The PAC-3 variant, featuring direct-impact technology, provides increased precision against ballistic missiles, while each launcher can carry up to four PAC-2 missiles or sixteen PAC-3 missiles, significantly enhancing the system’s firepower. Its rapid deployment capability—less than an hour—and resistance to electronic countermeasures ensure an effective and responsive defense.
The continued Spanish deployment in Türkiye relies on close cooperation between NATO allies. As the host nation, Türkiye provides the operational framework for Spanish forces to carry out their mission effectively. Additionally, logistical support from the U.S. Air Force’s 39th Air Base Wing, based in Incirlik, plays a vital role in maintaining the system’s operational readiness. This collaboration underscores the broader alliance commitments to regional and international security.
During the ceremony marking this milestone, officials highlighted Spain’s contribution to the mission. Spanish Ambassador to Türkiye, Cristina Latorre Sancho, emphasized that "Türkiye’s defense is also Spain’s defense," underlining the principle of allied solidarity within NATO. Brigadier General Kemal Güleç, commander of Incirlik Air Base, expressed Türkiye’s appreciation for Spain’s continued support, stressing the importance of sustained cooperation among allies.
After a decade of operations, the Spanish PATRIOT battery continues to provide air defense for Adana and its surroundings, reinforcing NATO’s defensive posture along its southeastern flank. The ongoing deployment reflects NATO’s commitment to ensuring the security of its member states against contemporary threats. More broadly, this mission highlights the strategic importance of allied cooperation in an evolving global security landscape, where technological advancements and operational adaptability remain key priorities.