Are Poles Turning to Military Training Out of Fear of Russian Aggression?

As tensions rise in Eastern Europe, Poland is witnessing a significant surge in military engagement among its citizens. Driven by fears of potential conflict with Russia, thousands of Poles are voluntarily enrolling in military training programs, reflecting a national commitment to bolster defence capabilities and ensure safety in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical landscape.

Last updated: 04 October 2025 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Over 20,000 Poles have signed up for military training in 2025, with expectations of 40,000 by year-end.
• Poland's defence spending has increased to 4.7% of GDP, the highest in NATO.
• The government has initiated the "East Shield" fortification along its eastern borders.
• Poland is actively modernising its military, including the procurement of new tanks from South Korea.
• The country’s military restructuring focuses on enhancing mobility, air defence, and local recruitment.

Rising Military Engagement in Poland

The past few years have seen a notable shift in Poland's military landscape, largely driven by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the perceived threat from Russia. The apprehension is palpable among citizens, with many, like Agnieszka Jedruszak, feeling compelled to take action to protect their families. As she trains near the Russian border, her story encapsulates the growing resolve among Poles to engage with their national defence.

Historical Context: Polish Resilience Against Russian Influence

Poland's historical relationship with Russia is fraught with tension, dating back centuries. The memory of Soviet domination is still fresh in the minds of many Poles, shaping their perspective on national security. The current military initiatives are not merely a reaction to recent events; they also stem from a deep-seated desire to reclaim agency in the face of perceived aggression.

Voluntary Military Training: A Growing Trend

Voluntary military training in Poland has experienced an unprecedented boom. Reports indicate that over 20,000 citizens enrolled in the first seven months of 2025, aligning with last year's record numbers. Colonel Grzegorz Wawrzynkiewicz of Poland's Central Military Recruitment Centre anticipates that this figure could reach 40,000 by the end of the year. This surge is indicative of a broader societal shift towards military preparedness and community resilience.

Understanding the Training Program

Poland's voluntary military training programmes are designed to be inclusive and flexible. Participants can choose their level of commitment, whether to serve part-time in the Territorial Defence Forces (WOT) or pursue professional military roles. This structure allows citizens to engage in their local communities while contributing to national security.

Defence Spending and Military Modernisation

In response to the escalating threat from Russia, Poland has significantly ramped up its defence spending. The 2025 budget allocates 4.7% of GDP to military expenditures, surpassing all NATO allies. This financial commitment reflects a strategic pivot aimed at modernising armed forces and enhancing operational capabilities.

Procurement of Advanced Military Equipment

One of the cornerstones of Poland's military expansion is the procurement of advanced weaponry, including the purchase of 180 K-2 tanks from South Korea. This acquisition is part of a broader strategy to modernise the military, focusing on armoured capabilities and technological advancements to ensure readiness against potential threats.

Border Security Initiatives: The "East Shield" Fortification

Poland's "East Shield" initiative represents a comprehensive approach to border security, involving the construction of a 400-mile fortification along the borders with Belarus and the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad. This project combines physical barriers with advanced surveillance systems to deter potential incursions and enhance national security.

Community Engagement and Local Employment

The military restructuring also aims to create job opportunities in regions with high unemployment. By engaging local communities in defence initiatives, the government seeks to foster a sense of ownership and responsibility towards national security.

The Challenge of Recruitment and Personnel Readiness

Despite Poland's ambitious plans to enhance its military, challenges remain. The country has the third-largest military in NATO, yet it faces a recruitment gap amid an aging population. Efforts to attract and retain personnel in the armed forces are crucial for maintaining operational readiness.

Comparative Analysis with Other NATO Countries

While Poland is making strides in military recruitment, other European nations like Germany and Britain are struggling with personnel shortages. Germany's Bundeswehr, for instance, currently has around 180,000 active personnel, below its targets. In contrast, Poland’s proactive stance towards military engagement appears to resonate more with its citizens, particularly in light of historical precedents.

The Future of Poland's Defence Strategy

As Poland navigates its defence landscape, the focus remains on building a scalable military force capable of addressing both current and future threats. The government’s strategy emphasises flexibility and adaptability, ensuring that the military can respond effectively to emerging challenges.

Conclusion: A Call to Preparedness

The ongoing military developments in Poland reflect a broader trend across Eastern Europe, where nations are reassessing their security priorities in the face of Russian aggression. As citizens like Agnieszka Jedruszak step forward to protect their families and communities, the implications of these changes resonate far beyond Poland’s borders. The question remains: how will Poland’s military evolution influence the broader European security landscape in the coming years?

FAQs

What is the current state of Poland's military training programmes?

Poland's voluntary military training programmes have seen a significant increase in participation, with over 20,000 individuals enrolling in 2025. The programmes are flexible, allowing citizens to serve part-time or pursue professional military roles.

How much is Poland spending on defence?

In 2025, Poland is allocating 4.7% of its GDP to defence spending, making it the highest in NATO. This increase aims to modernise the military and enhance operational capabilities.

What is the "East Shield" initiative?

The "East Shield" initiative is a comprehensive fortification project along Poland's borders with Belarus and the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad, combining physical barriers and advanced surveillance systems to enhance national security.

How does Poland's military size compare to other NATO countries?

Poland has the third-largest military in NATO, with approximately 216,000 personnel. This is significantly smaller than Russia's military, which has been expanded to 1.5 million active servicemen. In comparison, some NATO allies like Germany and Britain are facing recruitment challenges.

What are the implications of Poland's military expansion?

Poland's military expansion reflects a broader reassessment of security priorities in Eastern Europe, potentially influencing NATO's collective response to Russian aggression. It also aims to foster community engagement and local employment through defence initiatives.