‘Pre-War State’ Is Poland’s New Security Concept, With Warsaw Drafting Legislation to Counter Hybrid Threats

Poland is preparing a bill on a so-called "pre-war state" to establish operational rules for circumstances where the nation is not formally at war, but the security threat level is substantially higher than in peacetime, as reported by Polskie Radio.

Should this status be enacted, the military would be granted greater operational latitude to address emerging risks.

"To define this state of 'war – not war' that we are dealing with and which does not exist anywhere in legal acts. Previously, Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz always used the concept of 'hybrid war,' and now speaks of a 'pre-war state.' And whatever we call it, we definitely need to define what we mean by this state and what limitations will be lifted in connection with this so that the military can act effectively," stated General Roman Polko.

The drafted law aims to bolster defense capabilities, streamline cooperation between the armed forces and internal security services, and adjust current regulations to contemporary risks—principally hybrid operations, cyber security challenges, and foreign disinformation.

Under the proposed provisions, Poland could accelerate troop re-deployments, align its national Defense Response Plan with the NATO Response System, and better prepare infrastructure for military needs, according to Polskie Radio.

Read more

Category

War in Ukraine

Russia’s Oil Revenue Machine Is Losing Steam—September Income Drops 22%

Oct 05, 2026 16:42

Additionally, authorities intend to increase the number of units assigned to constant defense duty while restructuring training programs, exercises, and professional courses to fit the new operational reality. The draft rules may reach the desk of the Polish president within a few weeks.

Previously, Polish authorities expanded military formations across the Lublin Voivodeship , near the border with Ukraine, which included the initial deployment of a Patriot air defense battery to the region.

Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz confirmed plans focused on reinforcing the 18th Mechanized Division, the Air Force Academy in Dęblin, and the airbase in Świdnik. Key operational measures introduced a new 18th Motorized Brigade headquartered in the Opole Lubelskie and Poniatowa districts, alongside specialized air defense units and a battalion based in Biłgoraj.

Additionally, a dedicated drone systems brigade was positioned in Łuków, while infrastructure investments expanded facilities near Kraśnik for Abrams tanks, transferred land in Sobieszyn for the aviation academy, and prepared the Świdnik airfield for its upcoming role as a helicopter base ahead of scheduled AH-64E Apache deliveries in 2028.

Be part of our reporting

We report from the front lines to show the reality of war. Your support helps us stay there and tell the stories that matter.

DONATE NOW