Poland Unveils $2.55 Billion (10 Billion Zloty) 'East Shield' to Fortify Eastern Border

May 27, 2024, 10:30 AM

Poland has unveiled detailed plans for a $2.55 billion (10 billion zloty) program named 'East Shield' to fortify its eastern border with Russia and Belarus. The initiative, presented by the Polish defense ministry, includes the construction of fortifications, hubs, and telecommunication systems in coordination with NATO allies Finland, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. This marks the largest operation to strengthen Poland's eastern border and NATO's eastern flank since 1945. The plan also aims to enhance anti-drone surveillance and on-ground military defense along approximately 700 kilometers (430 miles) of the border.