Poland Deploys New Tank Battalion Near Belarus Border
Poland has deployed a new tank battalion near its border with Belarus as part of its newly established military division. The unit is equipped with modern technology, including K2 tanks, Rak howitzers, and Poprad anti-aircraft systems, according to the Ministry of Defense.
The new tank battalion will be stationed in Czartajew, a settlement near the Belarusian border. Polish Defense Minister Mariusz Blaszczak explained that the establishment of this battalion in Czartajew aims to strengthen the country's defense against potential threats from Russia and Belarus.
"We are aware of the danger, and we know that Kremlin leaders have unleashed a war because they want to restore the Russian Empire, which has always been a threat to its neighbors. To prevent an attack on our homeland, we are strengthening the Polish army and creating new military units. This tank battalion here in Siemiatycze will be equipped with K2 tanks, modern tanks designed for the 21st century," noted Mariusz Blaszczak.
The armored brigade will be tasked with conducting combat operations either as part of a division or independently, in various terrains and climatic conditions. The creation of this brigade significantly enhances the combat capabilities of the armed forces in a strategically vital region known as the "Bebza" area, which is crucial for the defense and territorial integrity of northeastern Poland.
The Ministry of Defense has already set up a container town in Chartajew to meet the needs of the new unit, providing essential social and logistical infrastructure that will be expanded in the future.
Initially, Czartajew will accommodate over a hundred soldiers, with plans to increase the permanent presence to several hundred troops following infrastructure expansion. In addition to the recently acquired Korean K2 tanks, the location will also house Rak howitzers and Poprad anti-aircraft systems.
Poland had previously received two light combat aircraft, FA-50, from South Korea, bringing the total number of these aircraft delivered to the country to eight. It's worth noting that in July, Poland received its first FA-50 fighter jets from South Korea. According to the contract, Poland plans to acquire a total of 48 FA-50 aircraft.