Poland's president honors Warsaw Territorial Defence Brigade

Deputy Minister of National Defence of Poland Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka thanked soldiers of the 18th Capital Territorial Defence Brigade for their service.

She highlighted their contributions during Operation Horizon, Operation Phoenix, and firefighting efforts in the Mazovia region, CE Report informs via the Ministry of National Defence of Poland's official website.

"The past few years have been a period of exceptional service by all of you. I would like to sincerely thank you for Operation Horizon and Operation Phoenix. I believe the residents of Wleń in Lower Silesia think of you with gratitude every day because what you accomplished there deserves the highest recognition. You were also on the front lines during the wildfires that affected Mazovia at the turn of May and June. You are always ready to serve and help whenever called upon. You are an exceptional brigade that protects the people of Warsaw," Sobkowiak-Czarnecka said.

On August 3, 2026, at Castle Square in Warsaw, President Karol Nawrocki, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, presented the military banner to the 18th Capital Territorial Defence Brigade during a ceremonial event attended by the deputy minister.

The brigade is the newest unit within the Mazovian Territorial Defence Forces. Its mission is to serve as the "shield of the capital," with detailed knowledge of Warsaw's streets, transport hubs, and critical infrastructure.

Sobkowiak-Czarnecka also recalled the signing of a contract for new Grot A3 assault rifles, noting that the upgraded version was developed based on soldiers' operational feedback.

"I want to thank you because the fact that you will receive the A3 version instead of the A2 is your achievement. The new version was created thanks to your comments. As the person responsible for military procurement, I promise that I will always listen to what you tell us, because your experience should guide decisions on how we equip the Polish Armed Forces," she said.

She also conveyed greetings from Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, thanking the organizing committee for the initiative and expressing hope that the brigade's mission would never require direct participation in war.

The 18th Capital Territorial Defence Brigade, as an urban brigade, specializes in urban warfare and urban rescue operations, making it a key component of Warsaw's metropolitan security system.

Photo/Video Ministry of National Defence of Poland