'We rely on Ukraine's experience': Polish military train civilian medics for war

"One thousand soldiers and dozens of medics are training at the Drawsko training ground. The Brave Tiger exercises are taking place there. Soldiers, in particular, are practicing the evacuation of the wounded from the front line, while doctors, both military and civilian, are mastering the operation of a field hospital," the publication reports.

The training program includes modeling of typical military injuries, such as lacerations and gunshot wounds.

The medics participating in the maneuvers were recently admitted to the military reserve. The purpose of the exercises organized by the 12th Mechanized Brigade is to familiarize civilian doctors with the specifics of military medicine and with real medical procedures in combat conditions.

"We have prepared a series of mock-ups. These are wounds typical of combat conditions, such as lacerations and gunshot wounds from artillery shells. We rely on Ukraine's experience and try to recreate similar situations that most often occur in modern conflicts," said Brigadier General Dariusz Czekaj.

Poland prepares population for war

Poland is accelerating the military training of its population. In particular, tens of thousands of volunteers are undergoing training, and defense spending has reached a record 4.7% of GDP — the highest level in NATO.

In the first seven months of 2025, more than 20,000 citizens signed up for voluntary training, setting a new record.

The mass participation of Poles in military exercises reflects growing concern about possible aggression from Moscow and the public's desire to be ready to defend itself.

Amid rising tensions, Poland has significantly increased its defense spending — from 2.2% of GDP in 2022 to 4.7% in 2025. This is the highest rate among NATO countries, surpassing those of Germany, France, and the United Kingdom.