The first group of soldiers is expected to be stationed at the newly formed unit by the end of 2023, as revealed by Poland's defence minister.
According to Mariusz Błaszczak, the unit in Czarna Białostocka is intended to serve as a crucial training centre for the recently reconstituted 1st Legions Infantry Division, which has been tasked with enhancing the defence of the Belarus–Poland border.
The announcement, made during a military picnic on Saturday, coincides with a series of events taking place across the country to mark the upcoming Polish Armed Forces Day.
While addressing the attendees at the event, Minister Błaszczak drew parallels to the pivotal 1920 Battle of Warsaw, which marked a significant victory over the Red Army during the Polish–Soviet War.
Commenting on the ambitions of Russia's President Vladimir Putin and his endeavors to expand Russian influence, Błaszczak said: "We are currently witnessing developments beyond our eastern border, where Putin is striving to reestablish an empire. Regardless of whether it takes the form of a White or Red Russia, or a Putinist regime, their methods and aggression remain consistent. In response to these threats, we are fortifying the Polish Armed Forces."
The decision to form a new military unit comes amid Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine and the movement of Russian Wagner Group mercenaries within Belarus.
Furthermore, Poland has seen an increase in attempts to illegally cross into the country from Belarus, mainly by migrants from the Middle East and Africa.
Poland to reinforce border with Belarus
On Thursday, Błaszczak stated that Poland will deploy 10,000 soldiers to the border with Belarus to support the border guard.
Also, in response to an incident involving two Belarusian helicopters breaching Polish airspace during an air exercise in the region, Polish authorities recently decided to deploy additional troops and combat helicopters to the Belarusian border.
(ał)
Source: PAP