Poland to conduct ‘Czarny Obrońca ’26’ military exercises

The Polish General Command of the Armed Forces has announced the ‘Czarny Obrońca ’26’ military exercises, scheduled to take place from September 14 to 24, 2026. The maneuvers will involve land, sea, and air operations across the country, specifically targeting the Lubuskie, Pomorskie, and Zachodniopomorskie voivodeships, as well as national airspace and maritime zones.

Led primarily by the 1st Armored Cavalry Division, the exercises will include personnel from the Land Forces, Air Force, and Navy. Due to the movement of military equipment, increased traffic is expected on roads starting from September 7.

Authorities have issued specific guidance for civilian drivers, noting that overtaking military columns is permitted only if done smoothly and without interruption. Drivers are strictly prohibited from driving between vehicles in a column and must maintain a safe distance. Additionally, the military has requested that citizens refrain from publishing real-time photos, videos, locations, or transit routes of the military units on social media for security reasons.