Poland martial law preparations analyzed

Historical analysis examines the preparatory measures taken in Poland prior to the imposition of martial law in December 1981. According to Colonel Lech Kowalski, biographer of General Jaruzelski, authorities developed alternative plans to address potential armed resistance, which included the possibility of using artillery and aviation to blockade entire cities.

Before the official implementation, various 'rehearsals' were conducted to gauge societal reactions and prepare military operational groups for seizing control under strict martial law conditions. These measures included managing protests in Warsaw and suppressing demonstrations at the Higher Fire Service School in Żoliborz.