Poland launches the “largest in history” military training program

Poland has launched a large-scale civil defense program called “wGotowości” (“Always Ready”) to prepare the population for a possible conflict amid Russia’s war against Ukraine.

Until 14 December, free weekend courses are being held at 132 military facilities across the country, covering first aid, survival in crisis situations, cyber hygiene, and basic security. In the first phase, 25,000 participants have registered, and by the end of 2026 the authorities plan to train around 400,000 people.

The initiative comes in response to recent security incidents: in September, Russian drones violated Polish airspace, and in November an explosion damaged an important railway line between Warsaw and Lublin, which Warsaw described as an act of sabotage and “state terrorism.” As part of Operation “Horizon”, up to 10,000 soldiers have been deployed to guard critical infrastructure.

Society remains divided: fewer than half of citizens say they are ready to defend the country with weapons, but interest in voluntary military training is growing — tens of thousands have already completed courses. Poland is currently spending 4.8% of its GDP on defense — more than any other NATO member — and now has one of the largest armed forces in the alliance.