Poland launches ‘Operation Horizon’, deploying 10,000 troops today

Poland has launched Operation Horizon, mobilising up to 10,000 troops to secure critical infrastructure nationwide following a series of sabotage attempts, officials confirmed on November 19.

According to the Polish Ministry of National Defence, the mission aims to strengthen “security through joint patrols, protecting infrastructure, counteracting sabotage and increasing resistance to disinformation.”
(Polish Ministry of Defence)

Why has Poland launched Operation Horizon?

At a press conference in Warsaw, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said the wave of recent sabotage incidents – including “unprecedented cases of planting explosives intended to disrupt vital infrastructure” – required “intensified action and cooperation” between security agencies.

Kosiniak-Kamysz stated:

“We are increasing cooperation between all services to counteract acts of sabotage and improve the level of security of citizens. The situation requires such commitment.”

General Wiesław Kukuła, Chief of the General Staff, described the new deployment as:

“One of the largest operations of its kind,” adding that the Polish Army’s activities will begin on November 21 with troops from “all branches of the Armed Forces.”

The operation follows targeted attacks on railway infrastructure linked to the transport of aid to Ukraine – incidents Polish officials have associated with Russian intelligence activities.

What the Polish deployment involves

The Ministry of Defence confirmed the soldiers will support police, border guards, firefighters and internal security units under a unified command structure.

General Kukuła said the goals include:

• “Supporting services responsible for internal security”
• “Preventing acts of sabotage and subversion”
• “Limiting the freedom of action of potential perpetrators”
• Encouraging citizens to report suspicious activity

A key element, he added, is to “introduce additional risks” for saboteurs and ensure their actions “become unprofitable and unacceptable”.

Kosiniak-Kamysz noted that Poland has allocated PLN 200 billion for security next year, describing it as “the largest funds in history” for defence, exercises and operational readiness.

For locals and expats, or those travelling through Poland:

• You may see a significantly increased military presence near strategic locations, including rail hubs, airports and border regions with Belarus and Ukraine.
• Some transport routes may experience additional checks or temporary delays due to heightened surveillance.
• While no threat to civilians has been issued, authorities advise staying updated on local advisories as security services increase visibility.

For most people, daily life will continue normally, but travellers should account for possible security-related disruptions in key transit areas.

The Defence Ministry said Operation Horizon will be reviewed weekly and may be scaled down “when the threat level reduces.”

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