Poland Launches Largest Defence Training In Its History

Poland’s Defence Ministry has unveiled a new nationwide military training initiative, marking the country’s most ambitious defence mobilisation effort in decades. Announced by Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, the programme—titled “At Readiness”—aims to train around 400,000 civilians by 2026 amid escalating tensions in Eastern Europe following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Largest Defence Training in Polish History

The “At Readiness” campaign has been described by officials as the largest defence training effort in Poland’s history. It will be voluntary and open to all citizens, including students, working professionals, and retirees. Participants will undergo a series of modules covering basic security, survival tactics, first aid, and cyber-defence awareness, ensuring that both individuals and communities are better equipped for national emergencies or wartime contingencies.

Programme Details and Scale

According to Deputy Defence Minister Cezary Tomczyk, the ministry expects to train about 20,000 individuals in November and December 2025 alone, and approximately 100,000 across various training formats during the initial phase. The broader plan includes practical courses under the “Education with the Army” initiative, reserve drills, and voluntary compulsory military service for those seeking deeper involvement. The government envisions a total of 400,000 trained citizens by next year as part of a comprehensive resilience strategy.

Strengthening Poland’s Defence Capacity

Poland now allocates a higher percentage of its GDP to defence than any other NATO member and has rapidly expanded its armed forces to 216,000 personnel, making it the alliance’s third-largest military. The government plans to increase troop strength by nearly one-third over the next decade, reinforcing its position as a key regional security power. General Wiesław Kukuła, Chief of the Polish General Staff, stated that the dual objective of the programme is to enhance community resilience and bolster military reserve readiness.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Poland’s “At Readiness” training programme aims to prepare 400,000 citizens by 2026.
• The initiative was announced by Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
• It includes modules on survival, medical preparedness, and cyber-hygiene.
• Poland currently has 216,000 military personnel—the third-largest in NATO.

National Preparedness Amid Regional Tensions

Originally introduced in March by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, the initiative reflects Poland’s determination to fortify its defences amid the continuing Russia-Ukraine conflict. By building a robust reserve force and promoting citizen participation in defence, Poland seeks to create a model of total national readiness—one rooted in both military strength and civilian resilience.