The Polish army is expanding its ranks with a broader recruitment drive. The aim is to reach an active force of at least 300,000 personnel, while also growing a large pool of individuals who are trained, capable of handling weapons, and prepared to act in a crisis, stated Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Mariusz Błaszczak in Elbląg on Saturday.
Military oath
On Saturday, a military oath was taken in Elbląg by soldiers of voluntary service who are training with the 20th Bartoszyce Mechanized Brigade, the 1st Artillery Brigade, the 16th Żuławy Logistic Regiment, and the 9th Olsztyn Command Battalion.
The Polish armed forces are strengthening. The number of new volunteers continues to rise. More than 2,500 soldiers of voluntary, compulsory service took the military oath today, reinforcing the active component of the force.
– said the head of the Ministry of National Defence.
He noted that 364 soldiers took the oath in Elbląg alone, all driven by a commitment to serve the homeland. He added that about 75 percent of those swearing in will become professional soldiers, while around 25 percent chose to join the reserve, a development he described as a major benefit for the state because these individuals are trained and aware of the tasks assigned to them by the nation.
He also pointed out that soldiers of the Territorial Defense Forces take the oath on Saturdays and that the series of training in the program “Train with the Army” continues in seven garrisons across the country.
This is the full package offered—an initiative that strengthens the Polish army. It is an opportunity worth seizing,
Blaszczak said.
A record number of soldiers took part in service
He highlighted that 13,742 individuals enlisted into service last year.
This marks a record in recent years and represents the largest intake since the abolition of compulsory universal service, according to the minister.
He added that the Defence Ministry has prepared 25,000 places in voluntary service for this year, with the option to expand if needed.
Our goal is to deter aggressors and build a strong Polish army. And that commitment strengthens each year,
Blaszczak stated.
Reinforcement of the Polish army
He stressed that authorities are aware of the risks and the ongoing war on Poland’s border. To prevent spillover, it is essential to maintain a robust military posture. He reiterated the aim of a Polish army with at least 300,000 trained troops who can use weapons and respond effectively in a crisis. This enduring readiness, he explained, serves as a deterrent to any potential aggressor.
Since 2015, following the governance change, new units have been created, particularly in the eastern regions, with more tactical formations and divisions being established.
The minister emphasized that the Polish armed forces are equipped with modern weapons that have proven themselves in operations, including support for allied effort in neighboring Ukraine. He noted that such arms enable effective defense and interoperability with partners.
Referring to the U.S. State Department’s approval to supply nearly 500 HIMARS launchers to Poland, he said this decision reflects Poland’s trusted alliance status and its role within NATO and transatlantic partnerships.
He underscored that Polish authorities are determined to strengthen national security and sustain strong ties with allied forces, while upholding the primary duty to safeguard the homeland.