PiS proposes National Defense Readiness Program in Poland

During the third Army Congress in Stalowa Wola, Law and Justice (PiS) politicians presented the National Defense Readiness Program, a proposal aimed at strengthening Poland's security through mass mobilization and training.

Jarosław Kaczyński emphasized the need for hundreds of thousands of combat-ready reservists, arguing that professional military expansion alone is insufficient. He also touched upon the potential for Poland to acquire nuclear capabilities to enhance deterrence, noting that while the path is long, it is not closed.

A key pillar of the program is the introduction of mandatory 16-day military training for men. Former Defense Minister Mariusz Błaszczak outlined the concept, which includes the 'Active Republic Reserve' and the 'White Eagle Academy.' The plan seeks to prepare society for crisis situations and modernize the military, specifically focusing on drone technology.

The proposal has faced sharp criticism from opposition figures. Sławomir Mentzen of the Confederation party dismissed the 16-day training as insufficient, labeling the participants 'untrained cannon fodder' who would lack the skills necessary for modern warfare. Meanwhile, Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz countered PiS claims, stating that the current government is already implementing widespread readiness and training programs.