Image source: topwar.ru
The Polish authorities intend to increase the number of armed forces three times – up to 300 thousand people But the population is not in a hurry to fill up the military ranks, sergeants and officers to staff the new divisions, and the existing material base is not enough to equip the troops.
After the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Polish army has steadily decreased.
explains a Polish retired Colonel Peter Lewandowski on the pages of Defence24.
In his words, the collapse befell the country's defence industry in connection with the transition to the procurement of military systems on the West. While this standardization of troops according to the canons of NATO actually affected only the special forces and one brigade, which participated in missions to Iraq and Afghanistan and it is only thanks to the transfer of equipment and logistical support from the United States. The rest of the army, supplied by the residual principle, modernization is almost not affected.
says the Colonel.
Against this background, the authorities intend to create three more divisions. But for new connections absent staff. According to the military, the poles did not wish to go into the service, considering it unattractive; not enough staff for vacancies in non-commissioned officers rosters. Bad deal with the material supply of troops:
- the Colonel.
As an example, he cites the lack of adequate outerwear – existing in the army jacket is not able to protect from adverse weather conditions, soldiers ironically called "certexam". The army continues to purchasing body armor found unfit after their operation in Iraq.
- sums up the Polish officer.