The first battery of Patriot surface-to-air missiles is to be deployed in Poland in the middle of April.

The battery is to be stationed in Morąg, northern Poland and will be serviced by a 100-men strong US military personnel. According to sources close to the Polish Defense Ministry, the installation process will take several days. The missile battery will be equipped with elements allowing it to be integrated with the Polish defense system.

Two days ago, President Lech Kaczyński ratified the Status of Forces Agreement SOFA on the conditions of the stationing of US troops in Poland. It paved the way for missile deployment.

In accordance with the SOFA, Poland retains its primacy of jurisdiction. If any crimes are committed by US troops outside the base they would come under the jurisdiction of Polish law. There are also provisions for American troops to pay taxes in Poland.

The agreement covers such issues as customs and tax concessions, the conditions of entry of US vehicles, aircraft and vessels into Poland and compensation for damages. (mk/pg)