Warned by the war in Ukraine and its historical ties with Russia, Poland is taking large-scale measures to strengthen its defense capacity. According to the Frankfurter Rundschau newspaper, the country is seeking to deter Vladimir Putin's regime through an increased military presence and serious investments, BTA reports.
With a population of 38.5 million, Poland already has a larger army than Germany, and by the end of 2025 it plans to increase its size to 230,000 people. By comparison, the German Bundeswehr has about 182,000 soldiers.
Poland allocates a record 4.7% of GDP to defense - the highest share in NATO. Its budget for 2025 amounts to 43.8 billion euros. The government plans to purchase Abrams and K2 tanks, Apache helicopters, F-35 and F-16 aircraft, howitzers, missiles and new submarines. Some of the equipment will be produced under license in the country.
Historian Dr. Jens Boesen points out that Warsaw has a clear goal - deterrence through readiness. Chief of the General Staff Gen. Wiesław Kukula emphasizes that Poland lacks strategic depth: “Our border with Russia and Belarus does not give us time to react. Preparation is key.“
The government envisages voluntary military training for men and women, including short intensive courses in first aid, shooting, civil defense and tactics. By the end of 2026 100,000 reservists are planned to be trained.
In addition, the school program “Education with the Army“ will include new elements of civil defense as early as September.
“If we are well prepared and Russia knows this, the conflict can be avoided“, says Gen. Kukula. “Deterrence through force is our best chance for security.“