Prime Minister Donald Tusk recently spoke about Poland’s East Shield project, a new approach to border protection using both infrastructure and natural elements, according to WP.
He visited the first section of the fortifications, which were initially set to be completed in early 2025.
The East Shield combines modern defense technologies, such as anti-tank ditches and concrete hedgehogs, with elements of the natural landscape to create a more effective barrier.
Tusk described the defense strategy as a well-thought-out sequence designed to secure the border.
The project aims to make the Polish border more difficult to cross for potential aggressors. "The better the Polish border is guarded, the greater the guarantees of maintaining peace," Tusk emphasized.
He pointed out that the fortifications are not only for Poland’s security but for the safety of the entire European Union and NATO.
The East Shield is seen as an investment in peace, with the goal of deterring threats before they reach Polish soil.
Poland plans to spend billions of zlotys on this ambitious project. The Prime Minister assured citizens that the investment would bring increased security to regions like Warmia-Masuria, Podlaskie, Lublin, and Subcarpathia.
With these new defenses, the government believes life will be safer for local residents.
The East Shield is a significant military initiative, costing at least PLN 10 billion. The project spans around 800 kilometers along Poland's borders with Russia and Belarus.
The fortifications will be equipped with surveillance and detection systems, as well as anti-drone technology.
Forward military bases and logistics hubs will also be established to support the Polish Army in case of an invasion. The main objective is to make it harder for a potential aggressor to invade while also enhancing Poland’s ability to defend its borders effectively.
