The Ministry of National Defense, as part of its ongoing Operation “Szpej”, plans to exceed 5 billion PLN in spending between 2026–2027 on the replacement and modernization of individual equipment for the Polish Armed Forces. According to defense officials, the modern soldier’s uniform must provide not only safety on the battlefield but also comfort. Innovative solutions, including active camouflage, are also becoming a priority.
“The uniform of the future should above all guarantee comfort in action. As the Territorial Defense Forces, we are light infantry, so footwear, camouflage, and all-weather thermal underwear are essential tools for our operations. The climate is constantly changing, new tasks and challenges are emerging, so we must be prepared for every weather condition. Soldiers will expect modern fabrics and breathable undergarments. Comfort, comfort, and more comfort,” said Col. Zbigniew Targoński, Chief of Staff of the Territorial Defense Forces Command, in an interview with Newseria.
Equipment Already Procured
According to the Ministry of Defense, Operation “Szpej” covers the replacement of uniforms and underwear, footwear, outerwear for various weather conditions, bulletproof vests, helmets, protective clothing, pistols, carbines with holographic sights, and magnifying scopes. Since the operation began, the MoD has purchased over 200,000 new Kevlar helmets, 100,000 bulletproof and tactical vests, more than 50,000 pieces of optoelectronic equipment, and over one million uniform items.
“From the security standpoint, the key issue is camouflage. The current defense standard in the Polish Armed Forces provides concealment at the visible and night-vision levels. Looking ahead, uniforms should extend this to thermal imaging and, eventually, radar waves,” said Col. Marek Trzonek, Head of the Standardization Division of the Military Uniform Service at the Armed Forces Support Inspectorate.
Future Innovations: Active Camouflage
Innovations under discussion include active camouflage.
“We live in the 21st century, technology is advancing—if cars in films can be, colloquially speaking, invisible, then why shouldn’t the 21st-century soldier adapt in this way? A soldier’s life is of the utmost value. It is the core of our armed forces and national defense. We must ensure soldiers’ comfort and provide the most advanced technology to help them survive on the battlefield. I have served for over 30 years, and this is my fourth camouflage pattern—progress is happening every day. We already see improvements with thermal underwear and new fabrics, but as a soldier, I can say we want more,” Col. Targoński emphasized.
At the Defence24 debate during the 2025 International Defense Industry Exhibition (MSPO) in Kielce, Targoński also highlighted the need for rapid friend-or-foe (IFF) identification elements and tailoring uniforms to soldiers’ specific roles, gender, seasons, and weather conditions.
“The uniform must also be breathable and not hinder a soldier’s tasks. Other key parameters include abrasion and tear resistance,” added Col. Trzonek.
Industry and Supply Chain Challenges
Industry representatives participating in the debate stressed the importance of supply chain reliability for timely deliveries, explaining that they avoid sourcing raw materials from the Far East, preferring suppliers in Poland and other European countries.
“In terms of garment and uniform production, the textile industry meets the army’s requirements. The greater challenge lies in securing sufficient supplies of raw materials at scale. Poland does not produce cotton or high-quality wool fabrics, so proper planning and supply chain management are crucial. Multi-year contracts are being introduced, and their number is growing,” said a representative of the Armed Forces Support Inspectorate.
Col. Targoński added:
“Production capacity and technology exist in Poland. With Operation ‘Szpej,’ the Ministry of Defense has taken a comprehensive approach, involving experts, the Support Inspectorate, and the Armaments Agency. I believe Polish companies are ready to provide equipment for the modern battlefield.”
Budget and Next Steps
So far, 3 billion PLN has already been allocated to Operation “Szpej,” including 1.5 billion PLN in 2024 alone, which represented 98% of the budget secured for individual soldier equipment that year. For comparison, the share was only 18% in 2016 and 32% in 2017. The MoD now plans to exceed 5 billion PLN in 2026–2027.
The ministry also announced the creation of a “green list” of authorized products available for soldiers’ private purchase as part of their personal equipment. Soldiers will be able to use their annual uniform allowance to buy items from this list. Products will need to pass tests in certified research centers before approval, with manufacturers covering the authorization costs.
