East Shield – A Strategic Security Project
In response to growing geopolitical threats, Poland is taking decisive steps to strengthen the security of its eastern border. East Shield is an extensive fortification program aimed at enhancing the country's defense capabilities, as well as those of the entire European Union.
East Shield is a strategic defense initiative involving the construction of advanced fortification and military infrastructure along the borders with Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine, as well as securing the border section with Lithuania. Strengthening the defense of both Poland and the EU is a priority, and with financial support from national and EU sources, the project is becoming a key element of the European security strategy.
Funding and Investment Scope
As reported by Deputy Minister of National Defense Cezary Tomczyk, a preliminary agreement has already been reached with the European Investment Bank for funding Eastern Shield with €1 billion. These funds will support the development of modern military technologies, including "innovative solutions in satellite communication, electronic reconnaissance, and improving the mobility of Polish troops." The deputy minister emphasized that Poland has already allocated nearly 1 billion PLN to this initiative, enabling the purchase of equipment necessary for constructing shelters, storage facilities, and barracks.
The East Shield project plans the construction of a fortification system stretching approximately 700 kilometers along Poland’s eastern and northern borders. By 2028, a zone of military installations will be created in these regions, potentially reaching up to 50 kilometers deep into Polish territory. Construction of the first elements of the infrastructure is set to begin this year. Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized that this is a strategic investment, with a projected budget of 10 billion PLN by 2028, supplemented by EU funds. He also noted that the project would not end in 2028 but would be expanded to cover additional border sections. “It won’t end in 2028 because it’s not just about the northeastern border—it must extend much further south along Poland’s entire eastern frontier. So the project will be multi-year and significantly more expensive,” said Kosiniak-Kamysz.
East Shield as a European Union Project
On March 12, the European Parliament adopted a resolution on strengthening EU defense, recognizing East Shield as a flagship security project of the Union. The adopted amendment emphasized that the protection of the EU’s land, air, and sea borders is a key element of European stability, particularly along NATO’s eastern flank. MEPs called for further development of the EU’s defense capabilities and the identification of the most pressing threats and mechanisms for responding to potential security crises.
The construction of East Shield is a key component of the strategy to deter potential aggressors and increase the resilience of borders. Originally a national initiative, the project has gained European significance, becoming part of a broader concept to enhance the EU’s defense capabilities. Cooperation with EU institutions and ambitious investment plans indicate that East Shield will not only improve Poland's security but also contribute to building a modern defensive architecture for Europe.