Poland is embarking on a significant expansion of its military forces, planning large-scale military training for every adult male in response to evolving security threats in Europe. Prime Minister Donald Tusk announced this initiative as part of the country's efforts to bolster its defense capabilities, aiming to prepare a half-million-strong army. Poland, situated along NATO's eastern flank, views the ongoing war in Ukraine as a critical factor influencing its strategic defense plans.
The Polish government has been proactive in increasing defense spending, allocating 4.1% of its GDP to defense last year, the highest among NATO members including the United States. This year, Poland plans to further increase this figure to 4.7%. President Andrzej Duda has proposed an amendment to the Polish constitution to ensure that the country continues to allocate at least 4% of its GDP to defense annually. This proposal underscores Poland's commitment to maintaining a robust military presence.
“Today we are talking about the need for a half-million army in Poland,” said Tusk.
The country's population of 38 million is seen as a vital resource in achieving the desired military strength. Currently, Poland's military consists of approximately 200,000 soldiers, with plans to expand to 220,000 this year. The ultimate goal is to increase the military size to around 300,000 soldiers. In addition to expanding manpower, Poland is also considering exploring nuclear capabilities and modern unconventional weapons.
“We must be aware that Poland must reach for the most modern possibilities, also related to nuclear weapons and modern unconventional weapons,” Tusk stated.
Poland's strategic location and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine have heightened its sense of urgency to strengthen its defense infrastructure. The potential repercussions if Ukraine were to lose the war or agree to unfavorable peace terms are a significant concern for Polish leaders.
“If Ukraine loses the war or if it accepts the terms of peace, armistice or capitulation in such a way that weakens its sovereignty and makes it easier for [Russian president Vladimir] Putin to gain control over Ukraine, then, without a doubt – and we can all agree on that – Poland will find itself in a much more difficult geopolitical situation,” Tusk emphasized.
The initiative also involves a societal shift toward a more militarized ethos, as highlighted by Jaroslaw Kaczyński, head of the largest opposition party. He noted the necessity of a mental shift in society alongside the military training program.
“We will have a return to the chivalric ethos and to the fact that men should also be soldiers – that is, be able to expose themselves even to death,” Kaczyński remarked.
The Polish government's ambitious plans reflect a broader strategy to safeguard national security and ensure preparedness against potential threats. This approach includes both increasing manpower and investing in advanced military technologies.
“Let’s face it: it’s not something nice, nothing pleasant. We know that very well,” Tusk acknowledged regarding the gravity of these measures.