“There is currently no need to reinstate mandatory military service,” this follows directly from the assurances of Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz. The politician pointed to high interest in voluntary service.
“I do not see today any need to reinstate mandatory military service. It is suspended, so such a possibility always exists”, said Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz. He noted that the current number of volunteers in Poland is higher than in many European countries that are considering or conducting mandatory military service. As he stressed, voluntary basic military service operates in the country.
“This year, if we sum up all forms of military training ending with an oath and entry into the Polish Armed Forces (SZ RP) – both into professional service, the Territorial Defence Forces (WOT), and the reserve – it amounts to around 54,000 people: 35,000 in voluntary service, 10,000 territorial soldiers and around 10,000 participants in the ‘Holidays with the Army’ programme”, he listed.
The head of the Ministry of National Defence also pointed to a significant increase in domestic ammunition production. “Within two years, at MESKO, production of small-calibre ammunition increased from 50 million to 250 million rounds annually”, he emphasised. “This is an enormous leap that secures the needs of individual equipment for soldiers and uniformed services”, added the defence minister.
The deputy prime minister also reminded that thanks to the Ammunition Factories Act, the capacity to produce 155 mm ammunition is expected to increase thirtyfold. Three plants, subsidised with 3 billion PLN, are to ensure the country’s self-sufficiency in producing this key calibre.