The long August weekend attracted to the Polish sea crowds of tourists thirsty for sun and rest. But this time, in addition to conventional seaside attractions, something absolutely peculiar was waiting for them. In the waters of the Baltic, against the background of a calm horizon, there were powerful shapes of warships. This different spectacle, organized for the first time in past with specified momentum, became the main attraction of the celebration of the Polish Army on the coast. Both the residents and tourists with disbelief observed the naval parade, which will be permanently recorded in the past of the Polish Navy.
This event was part of the central celebrations of the festival, which commemorates the winning 1920 Warszawski Battle, known as “The Miracle on the Vistula”. While in Warsaw there was a large land and air parade, in the waters of Gdańsk Bay Poland presented the strength of its fleet. For thousands of people resting in the Hel Peninsula, this was a unique chance to see close-up individuals guarding the safety of our maritime borders.
Historical parade in the Baltic waters. What could you see?
For the first time in history, the celebrations of the Polish Army were enriched with a full-size naval parade, which was held parallel to the parade in Warsaw Wisłostrad. The spectators gathered on the beaches and cliffs of the Hel Peninsula were able to admire the awesome combat chic consisting of approximately 20 vessels The Navy of Poland. It was a real demonstration of the strength and modernity of the Polish fleet.
The formation was headed by the largest and most crucial ships. These included rocket frigates, patrol corvettes and the only 1 in the Polish fleet Kilo submarine, Orp Eagle. His rising figure was very impressive, recalling the strategical importance of submarine forces. The parade was supplemented by a transport-mine ship, modern mine destroyers, as well as support units specified as rescue, reconnaissance and hydrographic vessels. Each of these units plays a key function in the country's defence system.
But that is not all. Airplanes and helicopters have appeared above the ships. Naval Air Brigade, which performed precise flights, demonstrating excellent coordination of naval and air forces. The safety of the full event was watched by commandos from the elite unit of Formoz, supported by Border defender officers, Military Gendarmerie and Police. The momentum and precision of the operation proved that the Navy was ready to operate under all conditions.
Not just on the water. Attractions for tourists in Hel
The organizers made certain that the celebrations were not only attractive to militarists observing the parade from afar. In Hel, in a specially prepared military zone, many attractions awaited tourists. It was a unique chance to see military equipment up close, which is not available to civilians all day. You could board any units, contact modern weapons, and talk to sailors about their service.
Soldiers were eager to answer questions, talk about their tasks and challenges in the field service. For many young people it was an inspiration and possibly the first step towards a career in the Polish Army. The atmosphere of Christmas warmed concerts of military orchestraswhich presented both military marches and popular works in patriotic arrangements. There was besides a culinary symbol of the army – anyone willing to effort a traditional, aromatic soldier pea, served straight from the field kitchen.
These events have an highly crucial social function. They build a bond between the army and citizens, show the transparency of the armed forces and advance military service. For thousands of families spending the weekend by the sea, it was not only a wonderful pastime, but besides a surviving lesson in patriotism and history.
Important MON declaration. The Navy has been waiting for this for generations.
The sea parade was not only a spectacular spectacle, but besides a symbolic background for a key political declaration. During the central ceremonies in Warsaw, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, announced a breakthrough decision for the future of the Polish fleet. The head of the MON announced that the government plans to finalise this year's contract for the acquisition of fresh submarines within the framework Strategic Orca Programme.
“We are standing here present to tell you where and how our troops are developing. [...] This year we want to settle with the Prime Minister, with the government the contract that sailors have been waiting for for generations. We want to buy submarines. The Orka programme must be implemented and implemented“ Minister Kosiniak-Kamish said. It's a prediction the marine community has been waiting for for years. Modern submarines will importantly increase Poland's defence capabilities in the Baltic Sea and will strengthen our position in NATO structures.
This decision is part of a wider transformation of the Polish Army, which besides includes the return of tank production to Poland, modernization of F-16 aircraft and construction of fortifications on the east border under the Tarcza East programme. The naval parade has thus become not only a celebration of history, but besides a manifestation of the future and determination in building a strong and modern army, capable of defending a country on land, air and sea.
This year's long August weekend will stay in the memory of those who spent it on the Baltic. The historical sea parade was an unprecedented event that combined the celebration of the anniversary of “The Miracle of the Vistula” with a show of state-of-the-art equipment. For tourists it was an unforgettable attraction, and for Poland an crucial signal that maritime safety is an absolute priority
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