The presence of the Polish aircraft in the area resulted from Poland’s participation in the multinational Operation Irini, conducted under a European Union mandate. The inspection, carried out on August 2, involved international forces. The Polish aircraft provided reconnaissance support, while the boarding team was deployed from the Italian patrol vessel ITS Thaon di Revel. The Italian unit was supported by a Greek guided-missile frigate.
Photos: Polish Armed Forces Operational Command
The objective of Operation Irini is to enforce the UN arms embargo imposed in 2016. Its mandate allows merchant vessels to be inspected on the high seas and off the coast of Libya when there are reasonable grounds to suspect that they are carrying weapons or prohibited materials to or from Libya. As part of its international commitments, Poland has participated in the operation since the beginning of activities conducted under the UN resolution, completing thirteen rotations to date.
The Polish Military Contingent Irini includes an aviation detachment operating an M28B Bryza B1R maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft from the Polish Naval Aviation Brigade, which conducts missions from Sigonella Air Base in Sicily. It is additionally supported by a national support element formed around the 10th Logistics Brigade from Opole.