News, humor or anything else related to Polish military

[Mishka Zubov]

TOPR helicopter came back to Zakopane
by PAP
Friday, December 7, 2007

6.12.Zakopane (PAP) - Helicopter "Sokół", owned by TOPR[1], came back to Zakopane[2] from the inspection in Świdnik[3]. "The machine is airworthy and ready for action" - informed last Thursday Adam Marasek, a TOPR deputy leader.

While the TOPR's "Sokół"(Falcon) was being inspected, its duty was taken over by a military helicopter from the 25th Air Cavalry Brigade from Nowy Glinnik near Tomaszów Mazowiecki.

"The TOPR rescuers train the soldiers and the pilots of the brigade, and the brigade helps in turn in moments likes this, when our Falcon had to go through the annual inspection in Świdnik." - said Adam Marasek.

TOPR was carrying such training in November last year. 250 soldiers and pilots from the 6th Air Assault Brigade and the 25th Air Cavalry Brigade were training in Tatra Mountains before being dispatched to Afghanistan in Spring this year.

Last Thursday was the end of a three-day TOPR training, preparing 60 rescuers for the winter season. "The avalanche threat recognition exercise was carried at Kondratowa Hala, including simulated operations on an avalanche blanketed terrain. Another exercise, with eight TOPR dogs, was carried in Świński Kocioł (Pig's Kettle)" - said Adam Marasek.
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10253&Itemid=69
translated by MZ

[1]TOPR - Tatras Voluntary Rescue Service
[2]Zakopane - a resort town in Tatras, a capital of Polish part of Tatras.
[3]Świdnik - a city where PZL Świdnik - a manufacturer of W-3 "Sokół" helicopters

While this is fine and dandy, and the red TOPR's Falcon looks nice, shiny and heroic (see some pictures below) this is the only helicopter in Polish mountains available to rescuers - and specifically in High Tatra Mountains - a mere stretch of 60 kilometers or so. GOPR (Mountain Voluntary Rescue Service), which operates everywhere else in Polish mountains (300 km or so) has not a single helicopter for its own use. And this includes Bieszczady, Beskidy, Karkonosze, Krynica, Podhale, Kotlina Kłodzka, Jura.

The gossip is that Jelenia Góra (Hello Perdurabo) will get some help from Polish Army this winter.

Helicopters to the rescue
Tuesday, November 20, 2007

Mountain Voluntary Rescue Service (GOPR) will have helicopters for aiding victims of accidents in Karkonosze. The machines will be stationed on Szybowcowa Góra (Glider Peak). The GOPR rescuers have been trying to get one rescue helicopter for several years now. Until now they have been given help either by a helicopter from Czech Mountain Service (Horská služba) or by a rescue helicopter from Wrocław.

This winter, however, two military helicopters W-3 "Sokół" from Tomaszów Mazowiecki will take care of the rescue missions. They will be serviced by the army, which will also carry all maintenance costs.

Their winter base will be a landing pad on Szybowcowa Góra. From there a helicopter can reach an accident place in fifteen minutes or so - which will make the life easier for the rescuers and will increase a chance of efficient aid to victims of accidents in Karkonosze trails.
source: http://jelonka.com/news,single,init,article,12438
translated by MZ


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[Mishka Zubov]

Since Polish military is recently keeping a very low profile about any operation in Paktika we have to resort to other sources. I already posted one message, with photos, based on an American source, about ANA led Sham Shad operation, in which Polish Battle Group is involved. But that message did not mention any specific geographical places.

The following information comes from an Afghani source and it shows exactly where this operation takes place. You can find those names on any map of Paktika - with a different spelling perhaps. Emphases are mine.


Afghan, Coalition forces launch new operation in Paktika

SHARAN, Dec 2 (Pajhwok Afghan News): Afghan and Coalition forces have launched a new operation - codenamed Shamshad - in the southeastern Paktika province, bordering Pakistans tribal region of South Waziristan Agency.

The sweep got under way from Yousafkhel district on Sunday, the Paktika police chief informed Pajhwok Afghan News. Purging the province of militants, paving the ground for reconstruction work and providing free medical care to the poor were cited as the main objective behind the operation.

Brig. Gen. Nabi Jan Mullahkhel explained the rebels willing to accept Afghanistans constitution would be invited to negotiations in a bid to convince them to support the government led by President Hamid Karzai. Afghan police, army and the US-led Coalition are taking part in the clean-up campaign.

Ghamay Khan, a spokesman for the Paktika governor, revealed the counter-insurgency operation would be extended to Janikhel, Yahyakhel, Khairkot, Khushamand, Dila and Wazikhwa districts.

During the 15-day operation, undertaken at the request of the people, a number of uplift projects would be launched, the gubernatorial spokesman said. A similar sweep conducted last month saw the launch of 60 development schemes in the province.

sah/mud
source: http://www.pajhwok.com/viewstory.asp?lng=eng&id=46411

[Mishka Zubov]

LPR helicopter crashed near the airport
December 7, 2007

A helicopter of the Air Emergency Service (LPR) crashed yesterday evening in Suwałki [NE Poland - MZ]. It felt down from a height of dozen or so meters. There was only a pilot on board. He was transfered to a hospital with injuries to his head and legs.

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The cockpit has been completely destroyed. Photo H. Wysocka

A trouble with landing

LPR has been operating in Suwałki for more than a year. Yesterday the pilot flew to Szczecin for inspection. "Our helicopter has reached its limit of kilometers and a technical assessment was required" - explains Krzysztof Kapusta, a press officer from Suwałki police.

The Mi-2 machine from Suwałki was left in Szczecin and the pilot has been given a replacement helicopter for his return home. At around 1900 hours he reported to a base navigator that he was having trouble with landing. A thick fog made it difficult for him to find the landing pad. The base workers ran outside to signal him a way with special lamps. A while later they heard a bang and they ran in that direction. The helicopter felt down at a farmer's field few hundred meters from the base. It's cockpit has hammered into the ground, one of its wheels was broken away and they found the pilot outside the cockpit.

They were afraid of explosion

The LPR workers called the rescue services. The 52 years old pilot has been transfered to a hospital and his life is not in danger. The police and firefighters have been standing on guard all night, securing the place of accident.

"We are afraid of possible explosion of the tank, which is on the top of the wreck" - explained yesterday Dariusz Siwicki, a deputy commander of Suwałki firefighters' unit. "In this case other people could suffer."

An investigation commission for airborne accidents was on its way to Suwałki to inspect the site and to find out what was the cause of the accident. "A probable cause were the bad weather conditions" - adds Kapusta. "But we cannot exclude a machine failure. We are waiting for an opinion of experts."

source: http://www.wspolczesna.pl/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071207/REG10/71207003

[daily666]

For Christ sake and they are about to cancel the, already finished, tender for a new LPR chopper. This time it was pure luck with the Mi-2 but most of those helos are about to finish it;s life expectancy.

[Switek]

We've got a ****ty legal procedures. According to bad scenario purchase process can be delayed for two years... But there is another, much more serious problem. We do not have sufficient nmuber of trained pilots for future Air Emergency Service structure.

[Jocker_89]

I can't believe that those Mi-2 are still flying

[Mishka Zubov]

Here is something else to consider.

Mi-2 maximum speed - 220 km/h, range - 340 km
Szczecin-Białystok distance [1] - 570 km

So that's about three hours of top speed flying time. He had to land to refuel - add half hour. God knows how long he had to stay in Szczecin, but the point is: he must have been tired, he was coming after dark, in a fog, after at least 7 hours of top speed flying, or 10 hours of average speed flying, say. I am not a pilot but I can guess that Mi-2 is not the most comfortable airborne vehicle to operate because of noise and vibrations. This is not a limousine. Flying in such conditions must be like driving twice as long.

I do not know what their regulations look like. But if I were a dispatcher in Szczecin I would have offered him a white lie about some unavoidable delays in securing the replacement helicopter and sent him to a local hotel to rest. I suspect that military pilots fly such distances often but - for God's sake - that man is 52 years old, and he should have already learned that 'macho' claims are rather stupid ones.


Off topic - Reference 1
[1]One Polish server offering services for calculating distances between places in Poland, including small villages, barfed on me right after I typed Suwałki. It apparently did not like the "ł" character. It did not like "Suwalki" either. So I had to settle on hardcoded distance Szczecin-Białystok, taken from some Japanese server - of all places! I was too impatient to search for something more appropriate.

In my experience, about 50% of web services in Poland still live in the stone age era, tied up to Windows operating system, Latin-2 encoding and their shiite translation into their proprietary encodings. Have not they learned anything about Unicode yet? Or is it that they have no clue what UTF-8 stands for?

What I mean is this: when you type Polish special characters as input to many such services as dictionaries or road distances, the stupid servers get confused when they receive input in straight Unicode or UTF-8 - a format known to most people and services in the world. But unfortunately there are still some Flintstones around - and many of them are in Poland.

[daily666]

We've got a ****ty legal procedures. According to bad scenario purchase process can be delayed for two years... But there is another, much more serious problem. We do not have sufficient nmuber of trained pilots for future Air Emergency Service structure.

No it's not our law, it's our officials. It's a problem of that comes from EU directives. 2004/17/WE and 2004/18/WE of EU Parliament and Council. They are implemented in our public procurement act. The problem is with our institutions and formal errors within the documentation of the tenders.

[Mishka Zubov]

'Lion Pounce' returns Diwaniyah to its people
Read: http://www.blackanthem.com/News/allieslead/Lion-Pounce-returns-Diwaniyah-to-its-people12414.shtml

If this is true what the article says than this is a very good news.

Credits go to: 8th Iraqi Army Soldiers, Iraqi Special Operations Forces, Iraqi Emergency Response Units and Iraqi Police. Mentioned are U.S. Special Forces advisors. Not a word about Poles.

[Mishka Zubov]

A false propaganda note
December 10, 2007

In today's Polish military press there is one of those "hearts and minds" stories. The place of action are villages North and NW of Gardez, with strong resistance against president Karzai and the coalition forces. Many a rockets has been fired from around those villages towards allied camps. The idea is to change such attitude a bit...

The reluctant heroes are ANA soldiers delivering goods to children to imprint in their minds a positive image of ANA soldiers. Polish OMLT soldiers, together with Americans serve only as a security.

The goods delivered are standard one: hygienic means, satchels, writing kits, etc.

Here is where I sense a false note in the entire enterprise. The Poles have sent a big team of photographers (judging from the story signatures - all four of them). They have focused on their baby faced captain posing with children. There no ANA pictures - which misses the point. But the Poles pose like Japanese tourists - with children in background or in foreground.

Very kitschy! This is all wrong. I am not going to participate in that farce, so there will be no translation of that story and no associated pictures posted here.

Judge it yourself. Photos are here: http://www.isaf.wp.mil.pl/fotogaleria_158.html

[Switek]

Mishka Zubov it is a direct result Nangar Khel's syndrome, IMHO, and certain label of Poles in uniforms in Afghanistan and in Poland itself after that accident.

[Mishka Zubov]

I do not understand what you are saying. Pictures of Polish soldiers delivering food and clothes to poor villagers are likable and make a lot of sense to me. But not such cheap propaganda pictures as those. You surely recognize kitsch when you see one - don't you?

[Switek]

It is propaganda what says: we are friends of Afghan kids, not murders... It makes some sense especially after arresting 7 solders frm 18th bds accused for war crime.

[Mishka Zubov]

Well, Switek - with all due respect to you - I think you dead wrong here. Nangar Khel symptom will die away soon and I do not have to point out that there are blemishes attached to all sides involved in that conflict in Afghanistan: Poles, Americans, Canadians, Taliban.. Take a look, for example, at ISAF video page showing what Dutch UAV's recently registered - kids being used as live shields for the Taliban meetings.

But if Polish PSYOPS want good examples of good propaganda, and have nothing better to show, why don't they just use the old archival pictures - many of them posted here and elsewhere on this forum. Let's see:

- Afghan kids on vacations in Poland. Any follow ups? What happened to those kids? Are they still good ambassadors for Poland?

- A kid that went through the heart surgeries in Poland. This was a good propaganda, though quite costly.

- Doctor Sosnowski's efforts in Wazi-Khwa. Those pictures should be brought again and again any time the locals complain about lack of medical care in the province. I refer here to this snippet: Despite having a population of 75,000, the district has no hospital. There is a small clinic and that too is situated in the base of security forces. Locals dont want to take females for treatment there. source:http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2916456&postcount=740
Whose fault is this, for God's sake? That doctor "Judym"[1] does the best he can. Compare his efforts with those mumbo-jumbo local clinics in Wazi-Khwa, as described in this post: http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2744772&postcount=110.

He begs for money, he begs for involvement of international aid organizations.

- What happen with Dr. Sosnowski's idea of a mobile medical post for remote mountain villages? No funds have been found for this as yet?

- Delivering food, cloths and heaters in mountain villages before the winter time. Those were very natural, not posed, pictures. Good propaganda.

- Kids clustering around Polish soldiers - not only because they were giving some pencils away, but often because of the natural curiosity of kids. One of the best pictures I have seen was a picture of a four years old girl wading through a pool of water to reach the soldiers. Many such pictures can be found everywhere. Good propaganda.

- Kite flying pictures. Even if it was a cheap shot I had to admit that at the end it was good propaganda for Polish soldiers. You may not be familiar with the name "Geraldo" (an American talk show host, quite popular 10 years ago, but apparently still active) but I hear that he is copy-catting the idea in Kabul in this pre-Christmas time.

Switek said: It is propaganda what says: we are friends of Afghan kids...No, it just says: I am using this two years old kid, dressed in yellow jacket just given to him, who has no clue what it is all about, to make this propaganda picture, which I will display later at home on my fireplace's mantel.

It is like a hunter taking a picture of a deer buck he has just shot. Or a picture of a tourist in Zakopane with an old local mountain guide, with "ciupaga" (alpenstock) in hand. This is a trophy kind of picture and says nothing about how much one cares about the kid, the old man or the buck. This is an ego picture, nothing more.

[The only worse picture I have seen on this forum was a trophy picture of a Polish soldier posing with a dead Talib in the "Polish soldiers..." threat that many of our friends were so drooling about. Tasteless and actually giving a food for thought re. Nangar Khel incident.]

Propaganda is a powerful tool, but it has to be used cleverly or not at all.

References:
[1]For our non-Polish friends - Dr. Judym, a hero in one of the novels of a positivist Polish writer Stefan Żeromski, a symbol of altruistic work.

[Mishka Zubov]

Capture of a terrorist
2007-12-10
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9.12.Iraq. Intensive search operations of the soldiers from Special Operation Team (SOT) of the Multinational Division Center-South (MND CS) have resulted in capture of a known terrorist, Mohammed E.S. - one of the Mahdi Army leaders, responsible for smuggling weapons and rockets, and suspected of participating in the attack on governor Hamza in August 2007.

Arrested on December 9 at morning hours by Polish soldiers, in cooperation with soldiers of the 8th Division of Iraqi Army, the terrorist admitted to smuggling weaponry and rockets. He was detained in Afaq, about 30 km east of Diwaniyah, and then transported to Camp Echo.

The arrest was one of the effects of the "Lion Pounce" operation. The SOT soldiers surprised the terrorist in his own home. "The arrest is an effect of wider operations and the results point out to better and better cooperation with Iraqi security forces. Help and cooperation shown by Qasidiyah population is also significant" - stated MND CS commander, MAJ-GEN Tadeusz Buk.

The operation "Lion Pounce", lasting since the middle of November, has already brought an order and control over the Qasidiyah by Iraqi security forces. Iraqi soldiers and police serve in additional 11 patrol bases, recently built in various parts of the city. During the operation the Iraqi security forces, cooperating with MND CS soldiers, confiscated about 300 machine guns, almost 17 thousands ammunition rounds, 123 IEDs and 240 mortar grenades of various calibers.

A success of the "Lion Pounce" operation will create conditions for transferring responsibility for province safety to Iraqi security forces and local authorities.

LT-COL Włodzimierz Głogowski
Press Officer
Chief of Press Information Department
Multinational Division Center-South
source: http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/artykul/3900
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

"Field Post Office" on Golan Heights

Known reporters from TV Wrocław: Marcin Rosiński, Piotr Gorzkiewicz and Radosław Krępecki have been collecting some material among soldiers from Polish Military Contingent in Syria for a presentation series "Field Post Office", which deals with daily life of the soldiers on a mission abroad.

The program is designed in such a way that a viewer can see not only the mission via eyes of the soldiers but also the daily life of their families and friends back in Poland.

The preparation of this program was quite a complicated venue. Firstly, some volunteers had to be found - which was not that easy because most of the people feel uncomfortable in front of TV cameras. After that a TV crew went into houses of their families and friends to prepare an essay in Poland. Another TV crew went to Syria to shot the material about the daily life of the soldiers, their work and tasks.

Next the families and friends have been invited to TV studio in Wrocław, where the satellite video link has been established with Syria. Our volunteers could talk live to their families and friends, while the previously prepared scenes were being shown on the background. The stories brought plenty of emotion, laughter and happiness; there were some tears too on both ends of the link.

COL Andrzej Ostrowski, the UNDOF chief of staff, introduced the viewers to the specifics of the mission. After that the nine volunteers appeared one by one, talking about themselves, becalming the families and assuring them that they would be coming home soon.

Undoubtedly, the "Field Post Office" is an interesting way of presenting the population with the reality of the soldiers' daily service in their missions abroad and - on the other hand - providing some means for the soldiers to get in touch with their families at home.

We are inviting you to watch this series in December about soldiers from PMC UNDOF on Golan Heights.

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Author: CAPT Sylwester WLASZCZYK
source: http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/artykul/3899
translated by MZ

[Switek]

Mishka believe me or not but Nangar Khel symptom affected our military service persons much more than is commonly known. I really underestand your point hat those pix are bad examples how propaganda materials should look like. But from those pix I'm guessing they were made by soldiers themselves. They can make impression, what you described but I differ with my thoughts and I see intentions of our soldiers posing with those kids in other light.

[Mishka Zubov]

Oh, I have no doubts that their intents were commendable. And yes, the pictures must have been taken by the soldiers - amateur photographers, and not everyone has to be a professional photographer, with an artistic view point and experience. But my objection stays - what counts is a final impression, not the intent.

About the impact of the Nangar Khel incident on Polish army: I have quite a good idea about it. Although I did not talk to any soldier, I have read a lot on the subject - both good and bad things, from Poland and from abroad. As I see it - and I agree with some Polish commanders here - the only course of action is to stay calm and wait for the results of the court proceedings. In meantime, life is going on, and everyone - including the soldiers - have to cope with it the best they can. Not to hide away but carry on - with pride if possible.

[daily666]

Since it's also a thread about humor related to Polish military, here's new amateur video for Buldog (Kazik Staszewski new project) - V Rozbior Polski . Preety funny :D

http://www.youtube.com/v/Ds15Z93XpVw

[zvezdah]

Another great article, Mishka, thanks for posting the Lions Pounce translation!
Chris

[Mishka Zubov]

Since it's also a thread about humor related to Polish military, here's new amateur video for Buldog (Kazik Staszewski new project) - V Rozbior Polski . Preety funny :D
...


Ale ochotnicze hufce generała Lepera
Pokonały siły Rosji cztery do zera
Bramki bowiem na wyjeździe liczą się podwójnie
Chwały zatem nikt przy zdrowych zmysłach mu nie ujmie.
:-)
But the voluntary troupes of General Leper
Have defeated Russian forces four to one or better
And because the visitors may lay claim to double score
No one in his sound mind could deny his glory

[Mishka Zubov]

These are some selected excerpts from an interview with two veterans of Polish missions abroad. Both have been very disappointed of how the army has treated them and other veterans during and after their missions abroad - especially in context of recent arrests of Polish soldiers. Being quite angry they retaliate offering critical views on behavior of their commanding officers.

Avoiding some touchy subjects I extracted only the humorous portions of that interview. I found them quite funny, worthy to translate and to share them with you. Note that the Afghanistan stories are old - from several years ago, when president Kwaśniewski was still in office.


This is not a mission, this is a war!
by MIROSŁAW OLSZEWSKI
Monday, December 10, 2007
reprinted from weekly "Angora"

Excerpts

...
Equipment

"This is not a mission, this is a war!" - says Darek. But not a Rambo-like one. When they came to Afghanistan and they were shown an empty field and were given an order that if they wanted to sleep they had to put up the tents, and so on - that was just an ordinary war. But a while later some commander came in and said that they had to wear berets.

-Because a soldier has to look like that one on a picture. And the soldier on the picture wears a beret. And he also wears the Goretex boots, which can be worn in 40 Celsius below zero.

But there were plus 40 degrees from time to time in Afghanistan. Streams of sweat would be flowing down from under that beret and the feet would be smelling terribly only after a quarter of an hour. One of their colleagues has got so screwed up by that heat that they had to send him home.

There was problem with water from the very start. Somehow, none of the generals had envisioned that a soldier wearing a 40 kilograms flak jacket, a beret and and the boots designed for Antarctica had to drink more than a pregnant woman in a moderate climate. And that he must take a bath, otherwise his odor will be telling the Taliban where the unit moves.

Spent cases

-Another commander - says Darek - did not understand English at all. And this is a pity, because he could have had something interesting to do. But he did not have such choice - he had to command the boys and he was commanding them the best he could.

Darek: – This is how it looked like. We were going by Bagram-Kabul road, a so-called suicide road, and suddenly someone started shooting at us with "Kalakhs" from the rocks nearby. We jumped out of the vehicles, hide behind the wheels' rims. Everyone was shooting with anything he had been given by our Fatherland - until the American Apaches came in. The Taliban is more scared of those birds than of the possibility that there is no Allah. And after that event, when everyone was happy that he had survived one more day, a lousy commander came in and asked whether we had collected the spent cases.

We are sitting in the restaurant, there is no Taliban around, but Darek is still shaking with anger: "Would you be collecting the empty cases in such circumstances?"

Understanding Afghan culture

One day Kwaśniewski [the former president of Poland - MZ] came with a visit. There is a street in Kabul, the Gold Street - as the mission soldiers call it. Everyone there deals in gold. Or if not in gold then in drugs or weapons. A "Kalakh" goes for five bucks. And the president - says Darek - rides through that street with his body guards in tow. Suddenly the column stops. One of Kwaśniewski's men approaches a Muslim woman and starts talking to her. And he even attempts to kiss her hand!

- God in Heaven! The street is all in riot. The bearded men jump out with sticks to beat that woman. Because she let herself to be touched by a man, especially a Christian man! "Get the fvck into your vehicle, right now!" - my colleague shouts at that idiot. People are surreptitiously reloading their weapons, but everyone has only one thought: "Jesus, don't let them start shooting!" I will tell you something else - I am sick and tired listening to those faggots who have not been to war but talk about those high-principled Taliban! Because the Taliban are mostly dirty shrewd people - the cowards hiding behind the backs of their women and children when shooting at us. They are the drug dealers, having the Koran at the same place where an agnostic keeps his Bible.

-So, then we were getting out of that place because everyone was afraid of one thing: if they started shooting some civilians would die. But we have managed to get out of there. But at the base, that stupid man - after having changed his pampers, started asking around who was that soldier who had ordered him, a representative of the majesty of the Polish Republic, to get fvck out of there. He did not understand that an ordinary private had possibly saved his life.


War is just a business

Americans had enough water, so we would leech to their line to shower - says Darek. Then our army - attempting to introduce the order, peace and justice in Afghanistan - has managed to organize the containers in not so legal way. But let's not talk about it because who knows if this would not create some problem for our boys even today.

Actually, everyone was dealing, and black Americans mostly in drugs. Because the war in Afghanistan is not a culture shock (well, maybe at the beginning) but an ordinary business. "War is the best world business, better than show business" - they say. In every corner of the world.

Darek: We were taking part in disposal of drugs. Typically we would gain a control of the terrain, put all the stock in one place and burn it. But the black Americans were very intent on making their manicure after each such action. Do you believe how many portions of drugs one can bring out under the nails?

Andrzej: On my mission to Bosnia they have ordered us to bring a long column of trucks for an overhaul. We drove into a parking grounds, and left the equipment there. Two weeks later we came back for the supposedly repaired vehicles. We found each one exactly there where we had left it two weeks before. Nobody has even opened the door, or pulled up the hood. But the invoices were circling around.

Inspections

Afghanistan is far away, but Bosnia is nearby, on the way to Greece - to boot!

Andrzej: How many inspections have we had! And not just short few-days inspections, but at least two-weeks ones. We were also being inspected by spouses of the inspectors and their daughters-little-inspectors and the heirs-to-the-throne-inspectors. And they all were being given places to stay and vehicles with chauffeurs to drive.

-But don't you think that our army is wasteful! Oh no! My colleague once damaged a vehicle during a parade. He drove into a ditch. And the army ordered him to pay for the damages. He paid them back and quitted the army.
...

Parades

Andrzej: When they deployed us to a training center before the mission to Bosnia they did not trained us about Bosnian culture because we had to march a lot. Every time a general was visiting us at the Kielce campus there had to be a parade. And because there are so many generals in Polish army we had to march back and forth, all days long.

...
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10323&Itemid=46
translated by MZ

[SkyUS]

But if Polish PSYOPS want good examples of good propaganda, and have nothing better to show, why don't they just use the old archival pictures - many of them posted here and elsewhere on this forum. Let's see:

- Afghan kids on vacations in Poland. Any follow ups? What happened to those kids? Are they still good ambassadors for Poland?

- A kid that went through the heart surgeries in Poland. This was a good propaganda, though quite costly.

- Doctor Sosnowski's efforts in Wazi-Khwa. Those pictures should be brought again and again any time the locals complain about lack of medical care in the province. I refer here to this snippet: source:http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2916456&postcount=740
Whose fault is this, for God's sake? That doctor "Judym"[1] does the best he can. Compare his efforts with those mumbo-jumbo local clinics in Wazi-Khwa, as described in this post: http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2744772&postcount=110.

He begs for money, he begs for involvement of international aid organizations.

- What happen with Dr. Sosnowski's idea of a mobile medical post for remote mountain villages? No funds have been found for this as yet?

- Delivering food, cloths and heaters in mountain villages before the winter time. Those were very natural, not posed, pictures. Good propaganda.

- Kids clustering around Polish soldiers - not only because they were giving some pencils away, but often because of the natural curiosity of kids. One of the best pictures I have seen was a picture of a four years old girl wading through a pool of water to reach the soldiers. Many such pictures can be found everywhere. Good propaganda.

- Kite flying pictures. Even if it was a cheap shot I had to admit that at the end it was good propaganda for Polish soldiers. You may not be familiar with the name "Geraldo" (an American talk show host, quite popular 10 years ago, but apparently still active) but I hear that he is copy-catting the idea in Kabul in this pre-Christmas time.

Switek said: No, it just says: I am using this two years old kid, dressed in yellow jacket just given to him, who has no clue what it is all about, to make this propaganda picture, which I will display later at home on my fireplace's mantel.

It is like a hunter taking a picture of a deer buck he has just shot. Or a picture of a tourist in Zakopane with an old local mountain guide, with "ciupaga" (alpenstock) in hand. This is a trophy kind of picture and says nothing about how much one cares about the kid, the old man or the buck. This is an ego picture, nothing more.

[The only worse picture I have seen on this forum was a trophy picture of a Polish soldier posing with a dead Talib in the "Polish soldiers..." threat that many of our friends were so drooling about. Tasteless and actually giving a food for thought re. Nangar Khel incident.]

Propaganda is a powerful tool, but it has to be used cleverly or not at all.

References:
[1]For our non-Polish friends - Dr. Judym, a hero in one of the novels of a positivist Polish writer Stefan Żeromski, a symbol of altruistic work.

Spot on, could not have said it better myself. I feel the same way you do.

[Mishka Zubov]

Martin Schweitzer not Martin Schultzer

Daily "Rzeczpospolita" (and TVN24 copying the news) reports that American COL Martin Schultzer [sic!] has declared, right after the Nangar Kher incident, that he would provide all available documents - including satellite data, which could help in the court proceedings of the Polish soldiers. He also apparently said that he was willing to come to Poland as a witness.

Poznań prosecutors apparently deny such possibility. "Nobody from the American command in Afghanistan will come to Poznań with deposition in this case" - says Karol Frankowski from the Head Military Prosecutor's Office in Poznań.

Problem is - there is no Martin Schultzer, learn to spell, you dummies!

There is COL Martin Schweitzer though, commander of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, commander of Combined Joint Task Force 82 (CJTF82) - to whom the Polish Battle Group is subordinate. A commander of Polish Battle Group is also a deputy commander of CJTF82.
source: http://www.tvn24.pl/0,1531794,wiadomosc.html

[Mishka Zubov]

Fighting to save remains of a fort
Paulsboro is home to a key military installation from the Revolutionary War.
Posted on Mon, Dec. 10, 2007
By Edward Colimore
Inquirer Staff Writer

Excerpt


He said George Washington commissioned the Polish military engineer Thaddeus Kosciuszko to design a fortification that could stop British ships from reaching Philadelphia. Kosciuszko, whose abilities were admired by Washington and Thomas Jefferson, also helped design defenses at Philadelphia, Saratoga and West Point.

"Fort Billingsport was Kosciuszko's first job," said Quint, who lives in West Deptford. "His real genius was in the location. . . .

"It's at a perfect place. It was at the narrowest point of the river with a commanding view on a high piece of land about 30 to 40 feet above the Delaware."

The fort was built by New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia and South Carolina troops and inspected by Washington on Aug. 1, 1777. The Americans trained cannon on the river, had a small navy of armed vessels, and embedded chevaux-de-frise - long iron-tipped poles - in the Delaware to pierce the bottoms of enemy vessels.

"They blockaded the river and slowed down the British ships," Quint said. "It took [the British] about a month to get past the fort. They sent a force of 1,500 troops by land, and the fort's defenders evacuated in a hurry."
source: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/home_region/20071210_Fighting_to_save_remains_of_a_fort.html

[Mishka Zubov]

Media cooperation
2007-12-11 08:47:02

Information-press section of the 2nd rotation of Polish Military Contingent (PMC) in Afghanistan has begun cooperation with TV Tolo - the biggest TV station in Afghanistan, covering more than 80% of the country's area. The station programs are also being received via satellite in Iraq, Pakistan, India, Persian Gulf and Central Asia countries.

At the beginning of December Nawab Momand, a TV Tolo reporter, invited the information-press section of PMC to cooperation. Few days later BRIG-GEN Jerzy Biziewski and his public relation experts visited the TV Tolo studio in Kabul. At the end of the visit the contingent commander gave the interview - describing goals and tasks of PMC, effects of its cooperation with Afghani Army and Police and future plans of PMC.

This meeting was the first but not the last stage of cooperation between PMC and Afghan TV. Currently in planning is participation of Tolo reporters in a humanitarian action prepared for one of the villages in Paktika province.

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Text and photos:
MAJ Mirosław Ochyra
Press spokesman for PMC Afghanistan
http://www.isaf.wp.mil.pl/aktualnosc_250.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Humanitarian aid for Mashurey
2007-12-11 08:40:20
Polish soldiers have delivered cloths and food to small place Mashurey - aiding the local population in survival of the approaching winter.

Winter jackets, boots, blankets, flour, rice, beans and sugar - this are true treasures, in view of approaching winter, to the Afghans mountain folk. For this reason the Polish soldiers from the 2nd TST, supported by the soldiers from the Battle Team "C", have been welcomed with open arms during delivery of such products to the tiny village Mashurey in Wazi-Khwa district on December the 7th.

The cloths and food, brought by Poles, will certainly help the local population in survival of approaching winter, which is often a question of life or death in this country engrossed in poverty.

Besides delivery of gifts and providing protection of the event the soldiers were also distributing vitamins and school kits to children - teaching them about principles of personal hygiene and attempting to convince them that using cleaning means would help them avoiding dangerous diseases.

The operation was commanded by CAPT Rafał Frankiewicz, a deputy commander of Battle Team "C".

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Text: Krzysztof Wilewski
Information-Press Section
PMC Afghanistan

Photos: WO Mariusz Skwara
source: http://www.isaf.wp.mil.pl/aktualnosc_249.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Poles in a big operation against Taliban
Marcin Górka
2007-12-11

Polish soldiers from FOB Sharana took part in "Attal" operation - one of the biggest against Taliban in SE Afghanistan.

The staff of American 82th Airborne Division disclosed the details of the operation that just ended in the Paktika province. 6000 ANA soldiers, American 82nd Division and about 100 Polish soldiers from Battle Team Bravo from FOB Sharan participated in the operation. Polish command has not even officially mentioned the operation. Americans say that they have lost several soldiers, but they have regained control of the north part of Paktika.

Polish command assures that our soldiers were not involved in any regular battle. The Battle Team Bravo was mainly securing the transport routes.

Americans talk about operation "Attal" quite differently. - Those were the hardest battles since I have been here - says CAPT John Gibson, a company commander. The coalition forces were cleaning the Paktika province, especially Charbaran district, where - as the USA commanders admit - Taliban have become especially bold.

At the same time other military units were helping local population and the military engineers were reconstructing the infrastructure in the places taken from the Taliban. - Those people have been given humanitarian and medical aid. Our doctor was providing medical advice, delivering drugs and explaining how to use them - says MAJ Mirosław Ochyra, a spokesman for Polish Military Contingent in Afghanistan.

Our soldiers took also part in a shura - a tribal council of 12 tribes of Paktika province, which was part of the operation. The meeting - taking place in Omna town - was secured by 20 snipers and American fighters. This is where - together with the Afghan elders and their representatives to the Afghan parliament - further course of operation "Attal" has been decided upon. -Afghans already understand that Taliban will remain there as long as it obtain help from local population - summarized the shura COL Martin Schweitzer, a commander of the 4th Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division.

source: Gazeta Wyborcza, http://www.gazetawyborcza.pl/1,75248,4748717.html

More about the operation Attal:
http://www.cjtf82.com/BrNews_CONT/2007-11/2007-11-22-Operation-Attal.html
http://soldiersangelsgermany.blogspot.com/2007/11/operation-attal-in-afghanistan-1-503rd.html
http://www.military.com/forums/0,15240,156723,00.html

[Mishka Zubov]

Good cooperation of FB Łucznik with Land Forces

LT-GEN Waldemar Skrzypczak, commander of Polish Land Forces, was shown new offers of FB Łucznik during his visit to the Radom's factory. This included modernized versions of Beryl family carbines, the newest equipment and devices for the carbines, development versions of the P99 pistol - including a proposal of a modern military pistol for Polish Army, and the designers' plans for near future.

He was shown the newest assault rifles Beryl, Mini Beryl, Beryl Commando; transparent, semi-transparent and semi-opaque magazines for the Beryl rifles; the newest proposals of domestic and imported optics; new versions of tactical lighting; and the telescopic, multi-stage rifle buts designed in FB Łucznik.

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Preliminary version of a modified Mini Beryl in the olive color. The solution is based on the idea of soldiers serving in missions abroad. Also, on the soldiers suggestion, the magazines come in various levels of transparency - from completely transparent to almost opaque to completely opaque but with narrow transparent slots for visual inspection of amount of ammunitionGEN Skrzypczak stated the Łucznik is entering, together with Dezamet, to a group of companies best cooperating with Land Forces. He stressed that the user suggestions quickly find their way to the production. Various options allow for early testing, which in turn leads to selection of optimal solutions.

source: http://www.altair.com.pl/
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

One of the articles on Schengen zone, with Mister President as a hero, made me laugh so much that I consequently posted a story with some introduction and attached translation of two related articles. I could have posted it here because it is "military" and "humorous" (L. Kaczyński is the military chief of Poland after all, and we are talking about borders too) but since it also deals with politics I decided to put it in a new thread of the political section.
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showthread.php?p=2925901&nojs=1#goto_threadrating

[Jocker_89]

Ukrainian Army Day in Camp Echo

On the 6th of December Charge D’affear Ukraine embassy in Republic of Iraq Iwan Dovoganych paid a visit in Camp Echo in Ad Diwaniyah. During the visit Charge D’affear met with Ukrainian soldiers from Multinational Division Central South and with The Commander of Multinational Division Central South Maj. Gen. Tadeusz Buk.

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In the course of the visit with soldiers, Iwan Dovoganych was acquainted with specificity of their duties and with their main tasks. Maj. Gen. Buk reworded Ukrainian soldiers with MND CS medals and thanked them for their efforts and very good service.

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The next stage of the visit consisted of a meeting with Maj Gen. Tadeusz Buk. The purpose of the meeting was a discussed issues concerning cooperation and training of Iraqi police in the Ad Diwaniyah province. Multinational Division Central South consists of contingents from 9 countries. Ukrainian contingent comprises 27 soldiers. They form a team called PTT (Police Transition Team) and they are responsible for Iraqi police training.

http://foto.mw.mil.pl/foto.php?vhost=mndcs&id_md=3393

http://www.piomndcs.mil.pl/index.php?vhost=mndcs&akcja=news&id=1086&limes=

[Mishka Zubov]

If LT-COL Włodzimierz Głogowski, Chief of Press Information Department of Multinational Division Center-South (MND CS), reads this - and he should since I have been doing him a favor by translating for free most of his reports into palatable English - he should know that readers appreciate mostly the naked truth in the reports from Iraq, not the colorization of facts or blatant propaganda.

As Polish saying goes - "Każda liszka swój ogon chwali" (Each fox claims that his tail is the best) and here is what we hear from Iraq recently:
-The law and order in Diwaniyah have been imposed by American security forces, cooperating with Iraqi Army and Police - American Marine sources.
-The law and order in Diwaniyah is due to the surge of American Army into the area of Bagdad, Diwaniyah and elsewhere - American Army sources.
-The law and order in Diwaniyah have been imposed by Iraqi Army, Iraqi Special forces, Iraqi police with some participation of Americans - Iraqi sources.
-The law and order in Diwaniyah have been imposed by MND CS, in close cooperation with Iraqi security forces - Polish sources.

So which version is a true version? This is laughable, don't make us interpolate, or don't advice us that all versions are true to some extent. We can easily guess that. That's funny - when there is some success coming everyone is so eager to claim the rewards.

We also know that not everything is as rosy in Camp Echo as it looks from the official Polish reports. For example, one of the American administrators mentions in his emails from Camp Echo that part of his difficulties in doing his job properly are Polish and Iraqi bureaucracy competing for the control of resources, provided by USA of course.

All said, the following is a true translation of the official report by LT-COL Głogowski.



Anticipated aid
2007-12-12

Happiness and anticipation - those are typical signs on the faces of the Iraqis awaiting for help from Polish soldiers of CIMIC group from Multinational Division Center-South (MND CS). Polish and Iraqi soldiers have delivered successive aid for 110 families in Nahda quarters of eastern Diwaniyah.

On December 11 the CIMIC group has delivered four trucks of humanitarian aid to the inhabitants of Nahda quarters, within the operation "Oil Drop" - lasting since September the 29th. This is the area where the soldiers of Battle Group (a.k.a. Task Force "Lynx") keep their forward patrol base and go on daily patrols. Thanks to their efforts the areas covered by the operation "Oil Drop" are considered one of the safest in Diwaniyah.

The CIMIC operation was being secured by LT Dawid Ziemski's platoon.

Humanitarian aid is one of the elements of the activities gearing towards establishing contacts with local population and gaining its trust. While delivering parcels with food, portable power generators and bedding there is always a chance for small talk and collecting opinions of inhabitants of Diwaniyah.

"We currently see great changes in behavior of local population. At the beginning of the operation it was hard to convince them that we wanted to help them and to establish closer cooperation with them. Now the people approach us asking when we are coming" - says WO Janusz Sawa, an assistant of a platoon commander in Task Force "Lynx".

Last week the CIMIC group, together with the soldiers of the 8th Division of Iraqi Army, has delivered 1300 packets of food, cloths and AGD articles. The aid was delivered in the quarters until recently under the control of criminal gangs and extremist groups. Thanks to the operations of MND CS soldiers, closely cooperating with Iraqi security forces, the full control over the city and the province. The two operations "Lion Pounce" and "Drop Oil", run in parallel, bring expected results. For more than a month now their are no shots heard in Diwaniyah and the inhabitants can sleep peacefully.

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LT-COL Włodzimierz Głogowski
Press Officer
Chief of Press Information Department
Multinational Division Center-South
source: http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/artykul/3907
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

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Daje krzepę, krasi lica nasza łącka Śliwowica.No, no - this is not an ad. I hate advertisement. But I found this funny piece of news today about the Slivovitz (Plum vodka), from a place Łącko somewhere in Poland, that is on a list of protected EC food articles. And now some dirty forger was caught red handed attempting to sell his moonshine as the Łącko Śliwowica. But what I liked most about this article was this little rhyme displayed on the label of Łącko vodka.

I invite you to a competition: how would you translate it to English? I submit two versions. They have some obvious shortcomings. I am looking forward to the improved versions. :-)

Fitness as a rule of thumb
Comes from Łącko vodka plum

Strength and beauty both come from
Our Łącko vodka plum

[Mishka Zubov]

A helpful hand
by Andrzej Dachtera
Wednesday,December 12, 2007

During the first decade of December, a humanitarian aid operation for Afghan population has been carried in the place Sahak, Zormat district, Paktia province. The operation MEDHAP is especially worth noted because it have been prepared and executed by the local authorities, police, Afghan National Army (ANA) and the coalition forces, including Poles.

Poles have sent to the village one of the advisory teams (OMLT). A detailed operation plan and then its professional implementation have been high acclaimed by the local population. During the three days visit men, women and children could reach for specialized medical advice, go through medical examination and small medical procedures inaccessible in that region. Domestic animals have been also examined. After a visit to a doctor the locals were being given goods necessary for the winter time, such as blankets, winter cloths for children, medical means and food.

The soldiers of the 1st kandak (battalion) of ANA, together with its OMLT team, commanded by CAPT Jarosław Być, were responsible for the security of the operation. Even though they were busy the soldiers found some time for invoking happy smiles on the faces of the youngest Pashtuns by handing over small gifts.

The stay in Sahak has terminated in a raditional tea ceremony, drunk with the host of the terrain where Polish-Afghan forces had been camping. One has to stress that Polish soldiers are treated nicely and friendly by Afghan population here. This was a good opportunity for our soldiers to gather important information about life and problems of the poorest part of the Afghan society - whose support for the government is so important in order to increase safety in the region.

The visit was also an opportunity for our soldiers to test their new equipment and winter cloths - bought especially for this mission - in the practical tough weather conditions.

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Photos: chor. Maciej Smażyk
source:http://www.isaf.wp.mil.pl/aktualnosc_251.html
translated by MZ

Apparently some Polish OMLT can do a very good propaganda work, including very nice photo documentation - as opposed to bad trophy-like photos.

Can anyone comment on those winter uniforms and equipment of the Polish soldiers? There are quite a few details visible here.

[Mishka Zubov]

Last Hawks flew in this year
2007-12-12

On Wednesday, at 1625 hours, two last airplanes F-16 to be delivered this year, have landed at the airport of the 31st Air Base in Krzesiny.

The planes, numbered 4041 and 4061, are the one-seat versions. Altogether there are 33 F-16 fighters stationed at the 31st Air Base - 23 single seat "C" versions, and 10 double seat "D" versions. One of the planes, delivered on November 22, number 4085, is destined for the 10th TAS in Łask.

These are the last planes that have been delivered to Krzesiny this year. There are also one of the last training flights executed in year 2007. According to plan, next week, during the night shift of flights on F-16 the pilots will say farewell to the year 2007. The training with resume at the beginning of the year 2008.

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Text: CAPT Waldemar KRZYŻANOWSKI
Press officer of the 31st Air Base
Photos: Maciej Nowak
source: http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/artykul/3909
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Yet another aid event
At the beginning of December soldiers from Polish Battle Group visited the place Yosuf Khel, district Yosuf Khel and Ghayby Khel, district Yahya Khel.

Supporting the local population in preparation for difficult mountain winter and for their ordinary daily existence the following items have been delivered: 280 blankets, 150 children clothes, 100 mess tins, 260 pairs of galoshes, 28 umbrellas, 120 rain cloaks, 40 flashlights, 120 toys, 66 thermoses, 400 men cloaks, 500 women cloaks, 200 pairs of children shoes, 160 pairs of men and women shoes, 40 plastic tarpaulins, 50 heaters, 100 children cloaks, 200 pairs of children and adult gloves, 100 hygienic kits, 100 sacks of bean, 100 sacks of rice, 100 sacks of flour, 100 sacks of charcoal. Part of the gifts in form of the winter cloths and medicine have been provided by Caritas Poland.

CAPT Jan Sabinarz, a chief S-5 of staff of Polish Battle Group (PBG), was an initiator and organizer of the event. Soldiers from 1 TST, Support Group CIMIC - commanded by CAPT Przemysław Żaczek, were executing the operation, while PBG doctors - directed by MAJ DR Marek Piekarski, were supporting it. They have provided medical aid to 251 men, 98 women and 56 children. LT-COL Zbigniew Sawicki, a chaplain of the 2nd rotation of PMC-A, has been very much involved in organization and planning of the event.

Members of the Psychological Operations Team, commanded by WO Przemysław Gułajewski, participated in the "hearts and minds" side of the operation. They were delivering fliers with information about how to avoid mines and duds and education promotion material - advising parents to sending children to schools.

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Text: CAPT Radosław Zieliński
Photos: WO Robert Lemanowicz
PMC Afghanistan
source: http://www.army.mil.pl/12_07/131207_afg/131207_afg.html
translated by MZ

Food, clothes and medical help are obviously needed but I am a bit skeptical about those fliers though.

[Mishka Zubov]

Polish troops to arrive in Chad in May 2008: official
13 December 2007, 18:08 CET

(WARSAW) - Poland intends to deploy 350 troops in the EU's upcoming military mission along Chad's troubled eastern border with Sudan by May 2008, a senior Polish military official said Thursday in Warsaw.

"The main forces of the Polish contingent plan to arrive into the theatre of operation by mid-May 2008," Brigadier General Andrzej Lelewski told reporters. "Full readiness of the Polish force is planned by June 2008."

The EU plans to deploy around 3,000 troops in a EUFOR mission designed to help secure refugee camps and operations by international aid agencies along Chad's border with Sudan's Darfur region.

According to UN figures, since 2003 fighting in Darfur has claimed more than 200,000 lives and displaced two million people.

France will provide the bulk of troops for the Chad mission with Ireland, the Netherlands, Poland and Sweden, among others, joining in.

Poland currently has 900 troops deployed in the US-led stabilisation mission in Iraq and 1,200 troops serving in NATO's 36,000-strong International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) in Afghanistan.

Opinion polls show a majority of Poles oppose the deployment of Polish troops in both missions.
source: http://www.eubusiness.com/news-eu/1197564421.79


According to new itinerary, a preparatory group of Polish Military Contingent (PMC) will go to Chad in March/April. Its main forces will arrive in the middle of May. Operational readiness will be reached in June.

The PMC will be made of of 350 soldiers and military employers. The Poles will be stationed in one of the six forward operating bases in east Chad and they will be operating in Chad only. According to GEN Lelewski the mission will be a big logistical challenge because there is no infrastructure available there. The mission still has no helicopter support and no full medical protection.

source: http://redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=362&Itemid=54
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

More Poles for Chad mission
by MARCIN GÓRKA
Friday, December 14, 2007
Reprinted from Gazeta Wyborcza: Więcej Polaków na misji w Czadzie

Not 350 but probably 450 Polish soldiers will go on the mission of European Union to Chad - learned "Gazeta" from MoD.

- French have asked us for two transport helicopters, which are lacking for the mission. We will most likely agree but that means that 100 more soldiers will go to Chad. This is what is needed for efficient service of the helicopters - says our informer.

Our soldiers in Chad will be patrolling their region of responsibility, protecting convoys, assuring safety of UN employees and protecting landing strips; that is, the strategic objects for the entire EU mission. - The Poles are allowed to react only in extreme conditions of violation of human rights and to criminal activity - said yesterday GEN Franciszek Gągor, a chief of General Staff of Polish Armed Forces, at the press conference. - The soldiers will not be securing safety in refugee camps - this is a task for UN police.

Polish forces will be deployed later than planned. A so-called preparatory group, consisting of engineers mostly, will go to Chad in March or April. Its main task is preparation of a base for our soldiers, because whatever they will find there are just a landing strip and main access to water and electricity.

Main Polish forces will move to Chad in May. They will start their tasks in June. This is several months later than it was initially assumed. The reason for the delay is lack of sufficient number of helicopters - without which no movement of military forces is in fact possible. Roads are practically non-existent there. And those sparse ones are non-drivable during rainy season.

Poland is sending the military police from Special Unit in Gliwice and the soldiers from the 11th Armored Cavalry Division from Żagań and the 10th Logistic Brigade from Opole.

GEN Gągor says that this mission will be more dangerous than those in Afghanistan or Iraq. He is more worried about climate and tropical diseases.
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10432&Itemid=46
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

More details on Chad mission


MoD about Chad mission
by pap
Friday, December 14, 2007

Polish contingent to Chad will be ready in June

Polish Military Contingent to Chad will be operational in June next year - inform representatives of General Staff of Polish Armed Forces. They, however, added that the date might change depending on decisions at the level of EU.

A preparatory group will be sent to Chad in March/April, including engineering, logistical units and medical section. Main forces will be deployed in middle of May. Poland plans sending 350 soldiers and military personnel to Chad. Their tasks are area patrolling, protection of convoys with humanitarian aid and objects of special importance, such as landing strips.

In middle of November Mod chief Bogdan Klich declared in Brussels that Poland was ready to send 350 persons to Chad - under the condition of logistical support for our contingent.

As stressed on Thursday by representatives of General Staff - the Chad operation will be, among other things, a test of transport security. The region of operations is a big area, mostly hilly and desert terrain, with inadequate road system - mostly dirt roads that are non-drivable during rainy season.

The distance between the ports of debarkation, in Cameroon, say, and the Chad capital N'Djamena is about 2000 kilometers and the N'Djamena airport is capable to handle daily only one AN 124 airplane. Transport with C-130, CASA, C-160 is possible to Abeche[1]; access of forward operation bases is only possible via helicopters.

In meantime, even though the EU mission was to begin in December, the helicopters are still lacking - the transport and medical evacuation ones. There are talks about what countries will provide them. According to GEN Franciszek Gągor, a chief of General Staff of Polish Armed Forces, "It's hard to imagine carrying Chad operation without helicopter support." When asked whether Poland is able to provide their own helicopters in emergency situation GEN Gągor responded that "army is prepared for various eventualities."

He stressed, however, that sending our own choppers would mean increase of number of soldiers in our contingent; for example, sending two Mi-8 helicopters would imply extra 40-50 personnel. As he informed the reporters, Polish contingent will be stationed in one base and it will have its own area of responsibility. "We have our own preferences and we are still negotiating. I do not want to disclose as yet what our region of responsibility will be" - said Gągor.

No planned military EUFOR base has any infrastructure as yet; there is no water or electricity at any site. The EU Operational Command intends - within a framework of joint financing - to dig the wells, lay water pipes, flatten terrain and raise security embankments. The remaining work will be handled by national contingents.

When asked about the mission safety GEN Gągor said that "one can never predict everything." "We are aware of security threats during this mission; but a big challenge will be the climate, terrain conditions and infrastructure" - he added. The chief of General Staff refused to disclose any precise anticipated costs of Polish mission to Chad; he only assessed them as "several tens of millions."

The aim of the EU peace forces is stopping a threat of spreading the Darfur (Sudan) conflict and securing safety and stabilization in eastern region of Chad. Until now 11 states have declared their participation.

source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10439&Itemid=69
translated by MZ
[1]
The Abeche airfield, located near the Darfur region of Sudan, is currently used for some limited military transportation and humanitarian operations but may need upgrades to the air strip and hangers to allow for the increased air traffic that would arise through a UN or NATO deployment or expanded relief missions to Darfur. The Department of Defense (DOD) would be required to conduct a study on the feasibility of such an expansion, which would in turn send a message to Sudan's President Omar Hassan Ahmed al-Bashir that the United States is interested in expanding the Abeche airfield for genocide relief missions, NATO operations or a possible U.N. deployment to the region.source: http://www.californiachronicle.com/articles/viewArticle.asp?articleID=45700

[~~~~]

well, that's what you can call quick reaction... I wonder how many people are to die there before they will reach the operational readiness. instead of june 2008, why not setting the deadline to june 2009? maybe we could send there one additional helo and some 25 soldiers more at that time... geez, they act as if they were to prepare euro 2012 there, while it's all about saving human lives though... saving them now!!

[Mishka Zubov]

^^^
While I agree with you in principle that the Polish command acts according to the saying "once bitten, twice shy" and that the refugees need the help now I do not think that this is squarely Polish fault and that everyone else is ready. The Foreign Legion can obviously operate in any conditions but all the rest of them - Irish, Swedes, etc.?

Someone at the EU Operational Command is obviously planning "to dig the wells, lay water pipes, flatten terrain and raise security embankments. The remaining work will be handled by national contingents." - to cite my previous post.

On the other hand, did not we just recently learned that the 5th Engineering Regiment from Szczecin Podjuchy has been NRF certified? I wonder how well prepared they are to do just that job. http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2913482&postcount=730

Add to this that the 150 Military Police have been ready all along, so they could serve as protection unit for our engineers. So I guess that lack of helicopters and the national rope pulling is the issue here.

[Mishka Zubov]

The first two W-3 "Sokół" helicopters bought by MoD since 9 years ago
2007-12-13

Today a purchase agreement was signed for two helicopters "Sokół" (falcon) for MoD. The delivery is planned for September and December 2008.
...
Two helicopters W-3WA for transport of passengers, which will be used by the 36th Air Transport Special Regiment, will cost about 52 millions PLN.

These are the first new W-3 helicopters bought by MoN since July 1998. The previous contract dealt with the version W-3WARM Anakonda choppers for Polish Navy. Because of some financial problems their delivery was delayed until January 2002.
source: http://www.altair.com.pl/
translated by MZ

[signatory]

This week the Polish Navy came as first ever foreign navy to the Swedish Muskö base to pick up RBS-15 MKII missiles.

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The ship Grom getting armed to the teeth

MKIII will be delivered from 2009.

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Xawery Czernicki

Included in the visit was training in on and off-loading.

src (http://www.marinbasen.mil.se/index.php?lang=S&c=news&id=39893)

[Mishka Zubov]

Nice pictures, interesting news.

Merry Christmas to you too! :-)

[wholagun]

This week the Polish Navy came as first ever foreign navy to the Swedish Muskö base to pick up RBS-15 MKII missiles.

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/4180/14decavg012b5e6e5zx6.jpghttp://img503.imageshack.us/img503/9899/franbrygganczernicki7bawq3.jpg
The ship Grom getting armed to the teeth

MKIII will be delivered from 2009.

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/6196/14decavg011b60bc2fu7.jpg
Xawery Czernicki

Included in the visit was training in on and off-loading.

src (http://www.marinbasen.mil.se/index.php?lang=S&c=news&id=39893)



they are only for the Orkan Class corvettes or also the new Gavron Corvettes too? How many did we buy?

[Mishka Zubov]

Merry Christmas with few samples of old Polish music

Viderunt omnes fines Terrae (All the ends of the Earth have seen ...) (http://www.mediamax.com/mishka_zubov/Hosted/_Viderunt%20omnes%20fines%20Terrae.mp3)
Published in 1611 in Venice by Polish composer Mikołaj Zieleński. Recorded in MIDI format, enhanced synthetically by myself using OS X Garage Band. Time 2:01.

Hey Carol, oh Carol! (http://www.mediamax.com/mishka_zubov/Hosted/16%20Hey%20Carol%2C%20Carol_Hej%20Kol%C4%99da%2C%20Kol%C4%99da.m4a)
18th century Polish Carol, Men's Choir Harfa - Poznań, 1:18

Triumphs of the Heavenly King (http://www.mediamax.com/mishka_zubov/Hosted/19%20Triumphs%20of%20King%20of%20Heaven_Triumfy%20Kr%C3%B3la%20Niebieskiego.m4a)
17th century Polish Carol, Men's Choir Harfa - Poznań, 2:52

Sinfonia de Nativitate (http://www.mediamax.com/mishka_zubov/Hosted/21%20Sinfonia%20de%20Nativitate.m4a)
Polish anonymous pastoral symphony from year 1759, Musicae Antiquae Collegium Varsoviense, instrumental, 6:19

And some non-Polish jolly music too

Gigue (http://www.mediamax.com/mishka_zubov/Hosted/11%20Pachelbel_%20Gigue.m4a)
Pachelbel, Capella Istropolitana, 1:29

I hope you'll like it - MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Christmas is approaching
2007-12-17

Despite daily duties one can feel an ambiance of approaching Christmas in Polish Camp Echo in Diwaniyah. Soldiers of Multinational Division Center-South (MND CS) try their best to compensate for the separation with their families and friends.

Father Lt-COL Sebastian Piekarski, a chaplain of the 9th rotation of Polish Military Contingent in Iraq, leads the advent retreat, distributes Christmas wafers and prepares creche in the common room, while the "Eden" band soldiers practice singing carols and pastorals. The band is practicing a newly composed pastoral, which will be performed on Christmas Eve during teleconference with Field Cathedral of Polish Armed Forces. "The team members invite other soldiers to prayers by their singing" - adds father Sebastian. The Christmas Midnight Mass will be celebrated in St. Juda Tadeusz chapel two hours earlier than in Poland, due to time difference.


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Preparations for Christmas are all over the base. At the beginning of December the soldiers have sent their holiday parcels and they have received in return parcels from their families back home. WO Jacek Dziub, a manager of "Polish Oasis" club, which serves as a meeting place for soldiers of all divisional components, has already prepared a Cracovienne creche and decorated Christmas trees.

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The living containers are being decorated with lights, paper decorations and Christmas cards, received from many persons, such as children from orphanages and students from many schools all over Poland - such as Szadek, Rzeszów, and Kielce province. "These Christmas cards and well wishes from strangers, especially children, are particularly touching. Soldiers willingly and with pleasure reply to those greetings that have sender addresses attached" - says COL Bogusław Nowak, a chief of MND CS Health Service.

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LT-COL Włodzimierz Głogowski
Press Officer, Chief of Press Information Department, MND CS
source: http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/artykul/3927
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Shura in Jani Khel
2007-12-17

LT-COL Piotr Zieja, a commander of Polish Battle Group, participated in official opening of the seat of local authorities in Jani Khel district and in shura - a council of tribal elders of the district.

Besides Polish soldiers there were also representatives of the American Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT), a police chief of Paktika province GEN Haji Mullah Khel, COL Said Malook - a commander of the 2nd Brigade of Afghan National Army (ANA), and more than 300 members of local clans.

The main subject of discussion was the status of safety and economy in the district. The representatives of the provincial authorities were pointing out that the Jani Khel inhabitants should start contributing more to reconstruction of their little fatherland - when such opportunity is given now. They were also paying attention to large economical emigration.

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Text: CAPT Radosław Zieliński, Information Press Department,
Polish Military Contingent - Afghanistan

Photos: WO Robert Lemanowicz
source: http://www.isaf.wp.mil.pl/aktualnosc_254.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Poles will be reconstructing Afghanistan
by Marcin Górka
2007-12-17
Poland wants to participate in NATO reconstruction of Afghanistan, besides carrying battle tasks only - as it is now.

As we are learning - Poland wants to take over one of the Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRT). But this will cost us several tens of millions dollars annually.

- We want the Polish flag to be finally visible in Afghanistan - says Minister of Defense Bogdan Klich, in the interview with "Gazeta". - PRT is an excellent and a positive method of underlying our presence there.

PRTs are the bases-towns, populated by military and civilian personnel, which is responsible for reconstruction projects of Afghan infrastructure. They build roads, bridges, schools, hospitals and train teachers, say.

There are 25 PRTs in Afghanistan, including 12 in Regional Command East, a region of operation of Polish armed forces. Most PRTs is managed by Americans, but there are PRTs run by Turks, Canadians, Germans, as well as by Lithuanians, Estonians, Czechs and others.

According to our information, Polish PRT might be located in FOB Sharan, the main base of Polish contingent. There is already one PRT there - the American one. Poland might be taking over that PRT from Americans.

The Polish PRT might be formed on Spring. "About 100 soldiers have been already selected for the task. This is one of the reasons why Polish contingent will be increased by one third with the 3rd rotation in Afghanistan" - says our informer.

Many countries treat PRT activity as the most important goal of their mission in Afghanistan. Germans, who have forbidden participation of their soldiers in battle operations, manage their PRT at the northern part of the country.

The costs of managing PRTs are very high. A Spanish PRT in Kuala-e-Naw has opened a new hospital last month, which costs the Spanish government 2.9 millions dollars. Lithuanians have spent almost 100 thousands dollars for construction of mini power generator, which supplies electricity to more than 500 houses.

According to unofficial information the MoD will ask other departments to co-finance the PRT in Afghanistan. MoD does not know yet, what will be the exact cost of the Polish PRT and what tasks will be handled there; all of this will become clear only after the inter-departmental agreements.

The NATO commanders stress that PRTs are keys to "hearts and minds" of Afghans. However, there are cases that Taliban destroy objects that have been built. Last October they have burnt down a newly built school and murdered a woman-teacher.

- We have to fight against all out corruption and we have difficulties in gaining the trust of ordinary Afghans - says one of the highest ranking generals in ISAF mission. -Sometimes people do not want to take advantage of PRT projects because they are afraid of Taliban revenge against those seen as collaborators with NATO forces.

source: Gazeta Wyborcza, http://www.gazetawyborcza.pl/1,76842,4768259.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Doug Bandow is at it again. What seemed as a reasonable advice[2] in his other article, posted here[1], is slowly becoming verbally unpleasant and annoying by its repetitiveness. Way to go Doug, tell us more about "if you are not with us you are against us" attitude; this is the way to make friends!

And this is just the beginning. Wait to see all kind of 'merde' (pardon my French) that will be directed towards Poland after the withdrawal of Polish soldiers from Iraq becomes official and starts in earnest.[3]

Why are We Defending the Czech Republic?
December 18th, 2007 Posted in Foreign Policy, International, Europe, Military Policy

Why does the U.S. remain the dominant member of NATO, defending lots of irrelevant countries from nonexistent threats? Poland already is attempting to hold up Washington for some extra cash to participate in the Bush administration’s missile defense program. The Czechs seem similarly reluctant to join. Reports Angus Reid Global Monitor:

Many adults in the Czech Republic are against the construction of a U.S. missile defence shield base in their territory, according to a poll by CVVM. 68 per cent of respondents oppose the idea, and 73 per cent of respondents want to hold a referendum to settle the issue.

In December 2002, U.S. president George W. Bush announced plans for the development of initial defence capabilities, which include ground-based and sea-based missile interceptors, as well as sensors located in space. Washington has explained the project as a means to defend the U.S. and its European allies from a potential attack by Iran or North Korea.
The Czechs are entitled to take whatever position they would like. But the question recurs: why are we defending them? The Czech Republic is a pleasant nation, but utterly irrelevant to American security. If they don’t want to help us with our defense, why are we subsidizing their defense? It is time for Washington to stop letting countries leech off of the U.S. military in the name of being “allies.”
source: http://conservablogs.com/bandow/?p=306

[1]Doug Bandow has been introduced in this thread here: http://militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2912786&postcount=724

[2]Selected excerpts from [1]:
But Warsaw should not overplay its hand in Washington.
To be blunt, Poland needs America more than America needs Poland.
In the worst case, the United States is promising to risk Washington to defend Warsaw.
Poland is of no greater importance to the U.S. today.
Poland's participation in Iraq, a political gesture of minimal military value, is an insufficient offset.
Poland should agree to host the missiles, without expecting an extra cherry on top.

[3]I have already seen the first signs in the media: Americans are not happy with Brits leaving Basra; Brits are complaining that Americans did not satisfactorily control the Iranian border - endangering their mission in Basra; Americans, in turn, are pointing finger at Poles that they did nothing at Al Kut to stop the arms smuggling from Iran. Here you go - a perfect scapegoat.

[Mishka Zubov]

Ten airplanes cannot fly
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Mice grounded Polish F-16s

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Polish F-16s grounded by mice? Armed forces deny it but the fact is that 10 machines are not able to fly.

A field mouse has nibbled through cables of the most fearsome weapon of Polish Air Force - a mighty fighter F-16, stationed in Krzesiny near Poznań. An informer of "dziennik.pl" claims that at least one machine is grounded but 10 of them cannot fly. The Air Force confirms that the airplanes cannot fly but it does not want to admit that the cause is a mice sabotage.

Our informer assures us that something has nibbled through electrical cables of at least one airplane. "Everyone is certain that these were the mice. But the armed forces will deny it to the very end because this would discredit them. Every real soldier knows that there are problems with animals in every army unit. This is an ordinary element of the army's life" - tells us an officer from the Krzysiny base.

He adds that the mice problem has been known for a long time. The worst situation is at the beginning of winter when flocks of mice leave the fields and hide in hangars. The soldiers have been trying many things, like wrapping the cables with tapes soaked in substances deterring the rodents. Purchase of anti-rodent means, even the ordinary mice traps, has been shrouded in secrecy.

Damage of cables by mice is quite probable because I have seen many such cases in my career" - confirms COL Andrzej Wąsiewicz, responsible for introduction of F-16s to Polish Air Force. "I used to remove nests of birds and wasps from aircrafts. There were even snakes in pilot cabins in Asia" - he describes. But he has not heard about mice in Krzesiny though.

COL Wiesław Grzegorzewski from department of national defense admits in conversation with dziennik.pl that 10 F-16 aircrafts are grounded. "Several of them are waiting for the spare parts, and several others have to have their engines tested because those machines have crossed the acceleration limits of 9Gs during flight" - explains the colonel.

But he denies that mice have been the cause of any breakdown. "This is a gossip, a very attractive one for the media, but only a gossip" - assures Grzegorzewski.

COL Cezary Siemion from MoD, asked about mice, has a short answer: "This is a gossip, which already went around all Polish Armed Forces." Even the Minister of National Defence Bogdan Klich is already familiar with the matter.

Poland has bought altogether 48 F-16 fighters - 36 one seat version F-16C Block52+ and 12 two-seat F-16D Block52+.

Magdalena Rubaj
source: http://www.dziennik.pl/wydarzenia/article98147/Myszy_uziemily_polskie_F_16.html
translated by MZ

[signatory]

^^ Dutch airforce had same problem several times.. must be really annoying!

http://www.f-16.net/news_article1295.html

[Mishka Zubov]

I had never cut grass around my cottage up north. I loved the knee tall grass, mixed with wildflowers - a perfect hiding place for grouse nesting at the border of woods - right at the doorstep, but also for the pesky grass eating grasshoppers, chirping crickets and yes - mice. I know very well the mice winter migration problem. Forget the mouse traps - poison was the only way to prevent them from taking over the attic.

Other pests notwithstanding - wasps, ants and garden snakes nesting in cracks of the old patio, shrilling cicadas in hot summer days, crickets hopping in through the open patio door and then driving you crazy by their ceaseless chirping songs - the rest was just dandy: chipmunks and quarreling squirrels, grouse parading with her chicken, hummingbirds drinking nectar from the flowers planted by the cottage walls, owls and hawks hunting mice from perches nearby, deer nibbling on grass right at the patio, crafty and quite funny raccoons, occasional nightly visits of foxes and even a black bear breaking to a garbage box of one of our neighbors who had a bad habit of putting out his garbage the night before the garbage collection day.

[Mishka Zubov]

19.12.07 - Race Day One

The Gliding GP has brought together the sport’s top pilots from around the world to compete head-to-head in one of the fastest and most exciting gliding events ever.

Pilots have now been confirmed from 11 different countries. Each international pilot has earned his place competing in the FAI World GP Gliding Championship Series around the world over the last two years. These 20 pilots represent the elite of GP gliding and guarantee a thrilling competition.


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Sebastian Kawa's Super Sleek Glider. IGC ranking 1http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/original_temp497.jpg
1030 hours: Gliders are now on the grid, waiting for the early morning low cloud base to lift. Briefing is set for 1200 hours1230 hours - The sky is clearing with the curl of cloud from the east dispersing and the temperature rising. Gavin Wills revealed the first task of the world championships as 254km long taking the pilots to the top of Lake Dunstan, up to the northern corner of Mt Aspiring National Park, heading across to the head of Lake Ohau before returning to Omarama. On the first leg, the pilots will need to make a decision - if the lift is working they can fly direct to the first turnpoint; if the area looks too stable, they will need to keep to a hill line to the north. Wills described it as "an interesting task covering the brown, tussocky country to the south before heading into the sharp, pointy snapping peaks of the Siberia." Given the current weather conditions, pilots are expected to reach a maximum altitude of 8,500ft while negotiating the remote alpine terrain. Take off is scheduled for 2.00pm.

1400 hours - The gliders are getting airborne with a start time of 3.30pm set. All the action is available live at www.gpgliding.com (http://www.gpgliding.com) - sign up and check out the real time 3D graphics together with expert commentary - compulsive viewing!

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Take Offhttp://hotimg3.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/original_temp.jpg
Take Off1730 hours - Unofficial results are that Uli Schwenk (GER) was first home, closely followed by Steve Jones (GBR). Full results available soon.

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Uli Schwenk, Germany, IGC ranking 20source: http://www.gpgliding.com

[Mishka Zubov]

Afghanistan: Joint operation
by Radosław Zieliński
Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Operation "Sham Shad", a joint effort of Polish and American forces, Afghan National Army (ANA) and Afghan Police, has been just completed. Its aim was fight against identified insurgent groups in districts Dilla, Kushamond, Jani Khel, Kayhr Kot, Yosof Khel and Yahya Khel in order to strengthen a position of Afghan government in Paktika province.

The operation lasted from December 2 to 16. As a result a dozen or so suspected terrorists have been arrested and several tens of weapons, several hundreds rounds of ammunition and electronic equipment have been confiscated. But the most important, long term aim of operation was fight for "hearts and minds" of local population and support of local government.

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Polish soldiers from CIMIC group, commanded by MAJ Henryk Domański and CAPT Jan Sabiniarz, have organized five humanitarian operations - delivering several hundred sacks of food, several hundred pairs of shoes, several hundred cloth items, several hundred blankets, coal heaters, coal, kits for teachers and toys.

The coalition forces doctors organized five medical aid operations, helping several hundred Afghan patients.

Soldiers from Psychological Support Group of Polish Battle Group (PBG), commanded by MAJ Dariusz Rogoziński, have implemented many programs in those districts - discrediting insurgents; promoting Afghan government, army and police; promoting education, reconstruction and - first of all - CIMIC activities. The PSYOPS soldiers have delivered 21,000 fliers and 1400 posters. Banners have been hanged, four radio spots have been prepared - broadcast 45 times in Radio Sharan, and 80 electro-acoustic communiques have been delivered to local population.

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To assure that all those activities fit the needs of people living in the areas of "Sham Shad" operation the PBG commander COL Piotr Zieja took part in several shuras - councils of tribal elders, where the most urgent needs of specific districts have been discussed.

Photos : Robert Lemanowicz
Text: CAPT Radosław Zieliński, Press Information Section
Polish Military Contingent - Afghanistan

source: http://www.isaf.wp.mil.pl/aktualnosc_256.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Meeting of chiefs of defense
by Press Team of General Staff of Polish Armed Forces
Wednesday, December 19, 2007

On December 18 2007 a meeting of defense chiefs of Weimar Triangle states took place in Berlin. German GEN Wolfgang Schneiderhan, General Inspector of Bundeswehr, was hosting the meeting. Chief of French General Staff GEN Jean-Louis Georgelin and chief of Polish General Staff GEN Franciszek Gągor represented France and Poland, respectively.

The main aim of the meeting was exchange of experiences gained in NATO and EU operation in Afghanistan, Kosovo and Bosnia and Hertzegovina, as well as determining common intents of the Weimar Triangle countries in building defense capabilities of the European Union.

ISAF mission is especially important to these countries and this is why the exchange of information about military operations in different regions of Afghanistan has special meaning for preparation of military forces and effectiveness of their operations. The Weimar Triangle defense chiefs perceive necessity of intensification of efforts in training of Afghan National Police (ANP) and Afghan National Army (ANA) in order to transfer responsibility for security of Afghanistan into the hands of its citizens as quickly as possible.

Since they plan forming Operational Mentoring Liaison Teams (OMLT) the French and German generals were especially interested in preparation and operation of Polish OMLT, which aids the training process of ANA.

Polish GEN Gągor was in turn interested in experiences of the allies in preparation of Provincial Reconstruction Teams (PRT). Poland is planning to take over in 2008 one American PRT currently operating in Polish region of responsibility.

According to joint opinion of the generals much has to be improved in coordination of civilian-military operations in the areas of ANP training and economical reconstruction of the country at the regional and central levels.

A general itinerary for creation of Weimar Battle Group has been agreed upon. The intent of France, Germany and Poland is preparation of such group for operation during crisis responses of European Union in 2013. The process of planning, force generation and preparation of sub-units will commence with the meeting in Warsaw in the first half of year 2008.

The French and German generals have applauded the intent of Polish Armed Forces to greater engagement in command structures of EUROCORPS. Such decision was taken at the political level and its aim is active participation of Poland in the process of building the defense capabilities of European Union. In 2009 15 extra Polish officers and noncoms, including a brigadier general, will be serving in the command of EUROCORPS in Strasbourg - a de facto high readiness EU command agency. Currently there are only three Poles serving there.

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Photos: Press Team of General Staff of Polish Armed Forces
source: http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/artykul/3944
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Note that the author of this article is from a Łódź daily and hence he is mostly interested in the 32nd Łask Air Base (under construction) near Łódź, not the Krzesiny base near Poznań


F-16 live shooting already next year
by Krzysztof Kowalczyk
Wednesday, December 19, 2007

reprinted from Dziennik Łódzki

Polish pilots of F-16 fighters will commence flights with full weaponry next year. Currently we are receiving a large part of ammunition, missiles and bombs. The Polish hawks are currently under routine inspection in hangars and they will remain there till the end of December.

In meantime we are receiving AIM-120 AMRAAM middle range air-air missiles, AIM9X Sidewinder for direct battle in the air, laser directed Paveway bombs and thermovision AGM-65 Maverick missiles for destruction of fortifications and bunkers. Later the long range gliding bombs AGM-154 JSOW will be also delivered.

First F-16s will land at 32nd "Łask" Air Base on February 28. There will be 24 of them stationed there. There is a lot of construction activity going there - the landing strips are being reconstructed and expanded and additional hangars are being built.

The inhabitants of Łask and rural municipality of Buczek, where the largest part of the military airport is located, do not protest. In contrary, they are happy because the new airplanes mean new jobs at the base and in the service sector. Łask population will increase by about 600 people in the next few years.

The inhabitants are not afraid of danger of the fighters armed with missiles. The airport is 10 km away from the nearest civilian buildings. A protection zone has been set, which means that new houses must not be built in the 10 km radius from the airport.

Polish technicians, serving the Hawks, have to first learn how to hang and service all that weaponry. Then the time will come for the pilots. They will be trying the F-16 firepower at the Nadarzyce, Wielopolskie voivodship - the biggest European air training area. "We have specific number of battle means for use on training grounds" - admits COL Andrzej Wąsiewicz, a chief of the implementation bureau of the MoD F-16 program.

Our pilots will be training mostly the bomb flights and using traps for fooling the enemy: flares and reflective dipoles (thin bands of aluminum foil thrown out of an airplane to feint the enemy's radars). We will be also receiving special training ammunition - to save on expenses for the real one.

In January the pilots will start training in difficult weather conditions. "We will be able to maintain the flying capabilities of the aircrafts and at the same time remove snow and ice from landing strips" - assures CAPT Marcin Rogus, a spokesman for the 2nd Tactical Air Brigade.

The pilots will be spending most of their time on modern simulators, imported from USA. "These will be mainly computer battles" - says Rogus. The Americans will deliver the simulators by the end of this year. There will be more than 15 Autonomous Air Combat Manoeuvring Instrumentation systems (AACMI). Thanks to them our pilots will be exercising virtual battles against air and ground targets - as if they were doing it for real. The devices register a targeting phase, and control the precision of the shot itself. AACMI make it possible to simulate simultaneous battles of a dozen or so aircraft.

20 pilots, out of 29 currently in training in USA, will return home in 2008. Those who graduate abroad will be used as instructors at home.

source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10580&Itemid=46
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Caretaking free movement, security in the EU falls to new members along the Eastern frontier
The Associated Press
Published: December 19, 2007

KORCZOWA, Poland: The would-be intruders lurked just across the Polish border, hidden in a snow-covered field in Ukraine, but the heat of their bodies burned brightly as white spots on a guard's glowing green computer screen.

"Just rabbits and foxes," the Polish border guard noted, using a joystick to zero in on the images, which next time could signal drug traffickers, illegal migrants, even terrorists.

A swath of the European Union's easternmost members — nine new countries, most of them ex-Communist states — join the bloc's area of borderless travel known as the "Schengen zone" this week. While inclusion gives them unprecedented freedom of movement, it also comes with an unprecedented responsibility to protect the 27-nation bloc's easternmost edge.

To prepare, those countries — Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia and Hungary — have spent years beefing up their eastern borders with a range of advanced equipment funded heavily by the EU. They say they're ready to keep the line secure.

"The pressure is great," said Col. Waldemar Skarbek, deputy commander of a border guard region based in the eastern Polish city of Przemysl. "But Poland is prepared; a lot has been done."

The border posts, like the one in Korczowa, are equipped with thermovisual equipment, sensors that listen for the heartbeats of illegal migrants hiding in trucks, and electronic surveillance equipment meant to spot intruders. There are also tried and true methods like German shepherds, helicopters, jeeps, handcuffs and guns.

Come Friday, those easternmost countries, along with Malta, Slovenia and the Czech Republic, join the passport-free club, a moment they will celebrate with fanfare at midnight Thursday as a key step in the ongoing transformation of a new, united Europe.

"An improbable thing has happened — in many areas Europe is becoming one state," former Polish President Lech Walesa, the Solidarity leader who helped bring down communism, told The Associated Press. "This is the way the world should look."

Land and sea checks along their common borders will be abolished in an area that will swell from 15 to 24 countries, though airport controls will remain in place until March.

That means a terrorist or drug trafficker who manages to breach the easternmost border would be able to roam as far as Paris or Madrid without any additional checks — a fact that leaves some citizens and officials inside the EU worried. Many are also worried about a possible wave of illegal immigration.

"It would have been better to wait a year or two longer to abolish the border controls," said Joachim Herrmann, the interior minister of the German state of Bavaria. "It's all a matter of how well protected the border is from Belarus to Poland, from Ukraine to Slovakia."

Yet German Chancellor Angela Merkel's government firmly backs expanding the EU's border. Her interior minister, Wolfgang Schaeuble, recalled "very similar fears in the 1990s before the Schengen opening, none of which were fulfilled."

"Of course I take the concerns of the population close to the border seriously, although I cannot share them," Schaeuble was quoted as saying Sunday in the Bild am Sonntag newspaper.

Germany borders Poland and the Czech Republic to the east.

Poland, which views itself as a historical bastion of Western civilization against the East, bears the burden of protecting the longest external border among new Schengen countries — 1,185 kilometers (736 miles) facing Belarus, Ukraine and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad.

Though Skarbek and other customs authorities say that 10,000 Polish border guards and new equipment will prevent an increase in smuggling, they also acknowledged the challenges.

"Forged documents, like passports and visas, are of a very high quality," Skarbek said. "And the number getting through is increasing."

Europe will inevitably continue to struggle with would-be migrants from Chechnya, Moldova and other places plagued by violence or poverty.

Take, for instance, the borders between Kaliningrad, the poverty-stricken Russian exclave wedged between Poland and Lithuania, a source of cheap cigarettes being smuggled into the West.

"There is a real war raging on and we are losing it," said Col. Zenonas Zymancius, the chief of Pagegiai Frontier District for the Lithuanian Border Guard Service. "Our people are able to stop only small amounts of smokes smuggled in."

A 16-year-old former Lithuanian cigarette smuggler, who only gave his name as Julius, told The AP that he stopped after a friend died this spring in a car chase while crossing with wares from Kaliningrad.

Nevertheless, he doubts the beefed up borders are enough to prevent the practice.

"They will never stop this," Julius said. "We know exactly what each officer is doing at any time, where movement sensors and infrared cameras are installed."

"People do this because there aren't many chances to get a job in my town. The only way to survive is join these guys. Then you can easily make 100 bucks per night, if you are smart. Or get killed, if you are unlucky."

_____

Associated Press writers Monika Scislowska and Marcin Zoltowski in Warsaw, Liudas Dapkus in Pagegiai, Lithuania, and Roland Losch in Munich, Germany, contributed to this report.
source: http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/12/19/europe/EU-GEN-Europe-The-New-Divide.php?page=1

[Mishka Zubov]

Communique of Air Force Command

Referring to media reports about breakage of F-16 airplanes caused by mice I am informing that the described situation has never existed.

But, caring for the good name of the Air Force, we are explaining the reasons why some of the F-16 fighters have been excluded from the training.

As of December 18, 2007 there are 33 airplanes F-16 in the 31st Air Base in Krzesiny, including:
24 - flight ready,
7 - subjected to Acceptance Inspection,
1 - awaiting for MPS parts,
1 - going through tests after a problem has been fixed; it will be flown today.

Press Spokesman of Air Force Command
source: http://www.sp.mil.pl/
translated by MZ

So they are pissed off. I would be angry too! Actually, did not I clearly stated my position about that mice business by filing the post #801 http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2937551&postcount=801 under the title "Polish media have nibbled through electrical cables of F-16 fighters"?

In case you did not notice I'll repeat it again - the "media nibbled" not the "mice nibbled". The Polish media is relentless in their attacks on Polish F-16s. I begin to think that someone is paying them for that. Catherine the Great? Oh, shoot, that was in the late 18th century, she is dead now but she could have been a usual suspect. Competitors of Martin Lockheed? No-o-o, Swedes are just too nice to be doing that. :-)

Who is then behind all of that?

Oh yeah, I know! The Sheer Stupidity. The sheep herd instinct. Once they start running there is no way you can stop them. Like in the case of the poor old COL Schweitzer whose name they maim over and over again. They did it again yesterday. And in addition - they even try blaming him for the Nangar Khel event now.

By the way, I tried to comment on that in TVN24 but for some reason my two posts on that portal have not been accepted (censored?). The usual suspects are Windows vs. Unix (OS X) immaturity games, such as Unicode and friends vs. Windows specific features. Any ideas? Have anyone had any problems when posting from abroad to any Polish portal?

By the way - it does no matter whether the fighters are operative or not now. The command of Krzesiny Air Base has decided to take a break in training till the end of the year. So no one is in training now - mice or not. Everyone is preparing for Christmas.

[Mishka Zubov]

After not so good first day Polish pilot Sebastian Kawa wins the day two race. ULI Schwenk (GER) is still in the lead. The classification after two days of racing is as follows:

1. VV Uli SCHWENK Germany Ventus 2ax 15
1. DW Steve JONES UK Ventus 2ax 15
3. Z2 Ben FLEWETT New Zealand ASW 27 14
4. AX Petr KREJCIRIK Czech Rep. Ventus 2ax 13
5. BB Sebastien KAWA Poland Diana 10



FAST PACED RACING FOR DAY TWO OF WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

20/12/07

It was day of tense racing on day two of the FAI World GP Gliding Championship with another very high speed close finish.

The final 55km stretch to the finish line was a neck and neck race between the two leaders with Sebastian Kawa (POL), the current world number one, pipping Ben Flewett (NZE) to the post by just 7 seconds and finishing in a time of 2 hours 17 minutes 4 seconds. Steve Jones (GBR) finished in third place in 2hours 18 minutes and 14 seconds.

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Finish, Day TwoKawa enjoyed the course but really sensed that the pressure is mounting as the title of World Champion moves closer to being decided. “Everyone is watching your moves and acting accordingly. It is difficult when you are out in the front you have to make your own decisions. We all make wrong judgements and the winner will definitely be the pilot who makes the least mistakes. The next few days are going to be very exciting,” he said.

The 282.2km task first travelled north west to Mt Aspiring National Park with three major mountain ranges for the pilots to contend with, and it was vital for them to stay high. Mario Kiessling (GER) led through the first turnpoint, followed by Russian pilot, Vladimir Panafutin, flying an LS6, the oldest glider in the fleet.

By the southern turnpoint at Goodger the gliders were much more bunched. The drier weather gave more predictable lift for the pilots and with longer stretches between the turn points the gliders were able to deviate along the mountain ridges to gain good energy and speed.

The key to the fast finish was remaining high after the penultimate turn over the Ben Ohau range. The final descent back to Omarama airfield contained multiple thermals giving exciting racing conditions for both pilots and spectators.

Using the latest TV filming technology spectators around the world are watching the race live or delayed on the internet www.airsportslive.com (http://www.airsportslive.com), following the glider’s paths, speeds and altitude and also benefiting from the live commentary. An interactive email system has been set up with questions being received from around the world for the expert commentators.

The six days of intense, high speed competition continues tomorrow.

source: http://www.gpgliding.com/news/news/20/12/07.html

[Mishka Zubov]

Soldiers without protection of Rosomak
New armored vehicles will not be sent to Afghanistan
TVN24
2007-12-20

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/9269889b2321c828ee5fbadd1-24-1.jpg
Bureaucratic incompetence endangers life of Polish soldiersPolish soldiers in Afghanistan supposed to receive in January eight new armored vehicles Rosomak. However those vehicles have not been even produced yet - learned "Dziennik". Everything is caused by chaos in MoD, Polish military industry and the higher powers. Those Rosomaks supposed to replace the machines that have been damaged during battles.

According to Janusz Zemke, a former deputy minister of defense - delay in delivery of new "Afghan Rosomaks" might expose Polish soldiers to danger.

-I went to Afghanistan several times and I know how important those vehicles are. They offer an excellent protection for our soldiers. The facts are that, notwithstanding grenade shelling and driving over some mines, nobody has died as yet - says Janusz Ziemke.

The Afghan version of Rosomak is not easy to replace by a standard one - it has better armor and better optical devices.

Delivery date is not exactly known

The problem of the production delays has been kept in secret till now. "Only several people from MoD and Bumar knew about the delays" - says a high bureaucrat from MoD.

There was a confidential meeting last week between the MoD and the Bumar management, where the delivery date was declared. "According to assurances of the manufacturer the delivery will be finished by the end of the first quarter of year 2008" - informs COL Cezary Siemion, a chief of MoD press services.

This happened...

The problem is that not all parts have reached as yet the Polish manufacturer Bumar and the military plant in Simianowice Śląskie, where the armored vehicles are assembled. France has not sent yet the elements of the propulsion system. This week the internal audit of that company has been ordered by the Bumar's management. "The audit is still on, we are not informing about the results" - cuts Tomasz Szatkowski, a deputy chief of Bumar.

Although Bumar representatives admit that they are partially responsible for the delays they do not wish to serve as scapegoats. They point out to MoD neglects and ... the higher powers.

"The military plant in Siemianowe Śląskie, managed by MoD, responsible for production of undercarriage and armor, has not cooperated with us. Besides, the order for those Rosomaks came late" - enumerates Szatkowski, adding: "During floods in Italy a factory manufacturing parts for the vehicle's turret has been flooded as well."

Order and coordination

The former and the current MoD chiefs have declined the comments. The Treasure Ministry, however, has become interested in the problem. "I requested the explanations and I expect to receive relevant documents soon" - says Aleksander Grad, a chief of the department.

Rosomak is manufactured by several Polish companies, including Bumar Łabędy and WZM in Siemianowice Śląskie. The work is coordinated by the holding company Bumar, which - in name of the state - manages the military industry, and MoD. This year's coordination has end up in a fiasco; Polish army will not receive even a single Rosomak out of the 25 ordered ones.

source: http://www.tvn24.pl/0,1532915,wiadomosc.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

.. in a separate thread:
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2940243&postcount=1

[Mishka Zubov]

Polish Noncommissioned Officers Graduate U.S. Army Course

19 December 2007

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Polish NCOs and instructors after the U.S. Army's NCO Academy Graduation, including Sergeant Major Mariusz Piwonski, LTC Ray Wojcik, Sergeant Major Zbigniew Koscielniak, Sergeant Major Bartłomiej Augustyniak, Sergeant Major Tomasz Nowakowski, Sergeant Major Tomasz Kepa, Sergeant Major Jacek Okupski, Sergeant Major Paweł Wojtas.Sergeant Major Mariusz Piwonski, Poland's Sergeant Major of the Army, and six other Polish Sergeant Majors attended the Warrior Leadership Course graduation at the 7th U.S. Army Joint Multinational Training Command in Grafenwoehr, Germany on December 12, 2007. Eight Polish Noncommissioned Officer (NCO)-leaders graduated the Course. Polish Army Warrant Officer Michal Kempka was selected as a Distinguished International Student while three other Polish NCOs served as assistant-instructors during the tough 30-day course.

The Course is the first step in the U.S. Army's overall NCO Education System. While they were at the Command in Germany, Sergeant Major Piwonski and his distinguished delegation were escorted by Lt. Colonel Ray Wojcik of the U.S. Embassy in Warsaw's Office of Defense Cooperation, and were hosted by Command Sergeant Major Darieus A. ZaGara. Sergeant Major Piwonski and his team participated in meetings to discuss U.S. Army cooperation in further transformation of Poland's NCO Corps. The Polish NCO leaders also received a tour of the Command, the 7th U.S. Army's "world-class" international training facility, where they saw the latest in U.S. Army training.

A high point for the group was observing American, Polish, Romanian, Russian and other international soldiers training side-by-side. The Polish NCO leaders were additionally hosted to a visit at the Command's NCO Academy by Command Sergeant Major Erik Richard Ray Frey, Commandant, and First Sergeant James A. Mitchell, Deputy Commandant.

To date, over $400,000 in U.S. Security Assistance funding and Illinois State Partner programs have provided training for hundreds of Polish NCOs in courses ranging from the Warrior Leadership Course to the U.S. Army's Sergeant Major Academy.

http://photos.state.gov/galleries/poland/10628/grafenwoehr/DSC07363small.jpg
General David McKiernan, Commander, U.S. Army Europe gave the graduation speech at the Warrior Leadership Course graduation.http://photos.state.gov/galleries/poland/10628/grafenwoehr/DSC07361small.jpg
During the Warrior Leadership Course graduation. Sergeant Major Mariusz Piwonski, Poland's Sergeant Major of the Army with Command Sergeant Major Mark Farley, CSM, U.S. European Command and Lieutenant Colonel Ray Wojcik, Deputy Chief, Office of Defense Cooperation, U.S. Embassyhttp://photos.state.gov/galleries/poland/10628/grafenwoehr/DSC07356small.jpg
Over 400 U.S. Army and International partner Army NCOs (including 8 Poles), graduated the Warrior Leadership Course.http://photos.state.gov/galleries/poland/10628/grafenwoehr/DSC07332small.jpg
First Sergeant James A. Mitchell, Deputy Commandant, 7th U.S. Army NCO Academy with Polish senior NCO Delegation. Sergeant Major Zbigniew Koscielniak, Commandant, Poznan NCO Academy; Sergeant Major Bartłomiej Augustyniak, Commandant Torun NCO Academy; Sergeant Major Tomasz Nowakowski, Commandant, Wroclaw NCO Academy; Sergeant Major Tomasz Kepa, Commandant, Zegrze NCO Academy; Sergeant Major Jacek Okupski, Command Sergeant Major, 12th Infantry Division, Szczecin; Sergeant Major Paweł Wojtas, Command Sergeant Major, 6th Airborne Brigade, Krakow.http://photos.state.gov/galleries/poland/10628/grafenwoehr/DSC07325small.jpg
Polish Senior NCO Delegation visit 7th Army training facilities.http://photos.state.gov/galleries/poland/10628/grafenwoehr/DSC07319small.jpg
Polish senior NCO Delegation visiting 7th Army training facilities. Command Sergeant Major Zagara, CSM 7th U.S. Army JMTC with U.S. Army trainers and: Sergeant Major Mariusz Piwonski, Poland's Sergeant Major of the Army, Sergeant Major Zbigniew Koscielniak, Commandant, Poznan NCO Academy; Sergeant Major Bartłomiej Augustyniak, Commandant Torun NCO Academy; Sergeant Major Tomasz Nowakowski, Commandant, Wroclaw NCO Academy; Sergeant Major Tomasz Kepa, Commandant, Zegrze NCO Academy; Sergeant Major Jacek Okupski, Command Sergeant Major, 12th Infantry Division, Szczecin; Sergeant Major Paweł Wojtas, Command Sergeant Major, 6th Airborne Brigade, Krakow.http://photos.state.gov/galleries/poland/10628/grafenwoehr/DSC07273small.jpg
Polish senior NCO Delegation with 7th U.S. Army JMTC trainers.http://photos.state.gov/galleries/poland/10628/grafenwoehr/DSC07365small.jpg
LTC Ray Wojcik, Deputy ODC Chief, U.S. Embassy, hands WO Michal Kempka the Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) Guide on behalf of the Office of Defense Cooperation. Warrant Officer Michal Kempka, Polish Army was selected as a "Distinguished International Student" at the Warrior Leadership Course."http://photos.state.gov/galleries/poland/10628/grafenwoehr/DSC07373small.jpg
LTC Ray Wojcik, Deputy ODC Chief, U.S. Embassy, hands Sergeant Major of the Army Mariusz Piwonski, the Noncommissioned Officer (NCO) Guide on behalf of the Office of Defense Cooperation. Since instituting the position, SMA Piwonski is only the second Sergeant Major of the Army in Poland.source: http://poland.usembassy.gov/events_2007/polish-noncommissioned-officers-graduate-u.s.-army-course

[Mishka Zubov]

The picture below is taken from an article in Gazeta Wyborcza, Cieszyn without barrier (http://www.gazetawyborcza.pl/1,75248,4782466.html).
At midnight there is no longer a barrier artificially dividing the city by the state border. Polski Cieszyn and Český Těšín have been waiting for it 87 years. http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/z4780588X.jpg
A pass allowing for crossing Polish-Czechoslovakian border before WW2. Instead of photography there is a portrait of a woman painted by a folk painter Jan Wałach For many years [after 1920 - MZ] the contacts between both parts of the city were limited, even though there were families and graves of relatives on the other side of the Olza river. It was possible though, especially at the beginning, to cross the border with a pass issued by a local office. The Polish highlanders from around Istebna, who could not afford paying for a photograph, would glue in a small portrait to that document, made by a neighbor Jan Wałach, trained by Fałat and Mehoffer. They had to cross the river because they owned a piece of land to work on on the other side of the river. The document says:
Cieszyn County Office
Border pass
Name and surname: Kawulok Marja
Occupation: tenant farmer [a poorest class of landless peasants - MZ]
Born: 1856
Belonging: Istebna
Place of residence: Istebna
house 153, for crossing border to Czechoslovakia at control point 13 and main bridge Cieszyn
For reasons: vending, work, family
Valid until 19.6.1925
Issued on 19.3.1925

Notice the three crosses instead of the signature. Below in handwriting: "in my presence" and a signature of the witness.

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Divided city. Cieszyn (left), Olza river (centre) and Český Těšín (right).

[Mishka Zubov]

The 3rd day race was won by Mario Kiessling, Germany. The winner of the yesterday's race, Polish Sebastian Kawa was 4th. He has climbed from the 5th to the 3rd position in general classification.

Classification after the 3rd day race:
1. DW Steve JONES UK Ventus 2ax 20
2. Z2 Ben FLEWETT New Zealand ASW 27 18
3. BB Sebastian KAWA Poland Diana 16
4. DE Mario KIESSLING Germany Ventus 2ax 15
4. VV Uli SCHWENK Germany Ventus 2ax 15
6. AX Petr KREJCIRIK Czech Rep. Ventus 2ax 13


21.12.07 - Race Day Three

4.50pm - Kiessling wins day three of the competition.

4.44pm - No tea for Krejcirik, he is back on course. Kiessling currently in the lead heading to the fourth turnpoint and clearly going faster than the rest of the field at 235kph.

3.49pm - Kawa was first through the second turnpoint followed closely by Harvey. Now heading North East towards Mount Cook with a complex third leg ahead of them. Krejcirik came through lower and is struggling - heading for a cup of tea on the valley floor???

3.16pm - The pilots have taken a variety of routes on leg one. Galetto, Ruche and Kawa took the Ewe Range direction while Schwenk and a big bunch took the Lindis ridge. Steve Jones pushed out and lost height struggling for a climb, running off track as he searched. Ruche leading the bunch into the first turnpoint, followed by Harvey and Galetto - not much between them.

2.45pm - The gliders are off - a stunning sight with 18 gliders gleaming in the sun and stretched out above the airfield at 5.500 feet, heading out to the south west. Cloud base is predicted at 6,000 feet.

1.30pm - The gliders are lined up on the grid with the first starting to launch. The clouds are clearing. New race start time 2.15pm.

12.30pm - A grey morning has turned into another glorious Omarama day, with light and variable breezes. The flying forecast is another day of thermals, 6,000 feet rising to 8,000 feet and probably the same for tomorrow. Today's task has four legs, taking the pilots south-west to Goodger, then over lakes Hawea and Wanaka to Siberia, across many mountain ranges heading north-east to Glentanner on the shore of Lake Pukaki and back home via the western control point.
source: http://www.gpgliding.com/race-diary/race-diary/

[Mishka Zubov]

Sounds like horrendous joke, so I could not let it go unreported even if this is off topic. But this is for real. And seriously - this is really good! I hope they will succeed. Wow!

Parliamentary Commission for Absurd Matters and Damaged Goods
Polish parliament formed an extraordinary commission "Friendly State"
2007-12-21
PAP/Tomasz Gzell

Last Thursday Polish Sejm (Parliament) formed a new parliamentary commission "Friendly State", which will be tracking foggy, inefficient, redundant and absurd administrative regulations.

Its goal is ambitious: remove dead and burdensome legal regulations. Besides legal analysis and searching for legal damaged goods the commission will be preparing projects regarding necessary legislative changes. To implement them the commission has a legislative initiative mandate.

Th commission aims to removing bureaucracy from public life. "We propose changes to those administrative regulations that make our economy excessively bureaucratic" - said PO MP Janusz Palikot.

source: http://www.tvn24.pl/-1,1533022,wiadomosc.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

It is a pity that I was not able to translate this article properly, using an equivalent of the highlander dialects from both sides of the Polish-Slovakian border at the foothills of Tatra Mountains. So you must put your imagination to work.


Down with the barriers
by Bartłomiej Kuraś, Kraków
2007-12-20

I used to cross the green border to Slovakia through the Spisz forest. Today I admit to the border guards my illegal outings because I will be able to do it legally since Friday.

For the past 10 years I was visiting Osturnia - an enchanting village of Slovakian Ruthenians, one kilometer away from Polish Border, near Bukowina Tatrzańska.

I could have have been crossing it legally, by car. But that would mean 50 kilometers driving through border crossings in Niedzica, Jurgowo or Łysa Polana. Too long.

I would go there most often via green frontier. There is a dirt road from Polish Łapszanki to Osturnia. But this road used to be guarded by border guards. To avoid meeting them I would go by the forest - just one kilometer stretch. Luckily, I have never met a gendarme there.

Lately, after Poland and Slovakia entered European Union, our rulers have eased their position about that dirt road. They accepted that trail as "the border crossing point for tourist movement on foot, bicycle or skis." But by choosing the forest route I was illegally walking to Slovakia.

Last time I went to Osturnia via forest route on November 29, more than two weeks after the bureaucrats in Brussels decided that such outings would become legal on December 21, after joining the Schengen zone. I did not want to wait almost a month, a have missed that Ruthenian village at the Tatra foothills. And again, after several hundred meters, passing hardly visible border post I reached a meadow above Osturnia. That meant I was in Slovakia.

-We welcome you beautifully to Osturnia - a brawny old man welcomed me at the yard in a dialect similar to that used by highlanders on the Polish side of the border. People of Osturnia live almost exclusively in wooden, one level houses, images from 19th century. I went along the row of houses, glanced inside a brick greek-catholic church - a place of faith of most inhabitants of this Slovakian village. According to ethnographers their dialect is based on a mixture of Polish Podhale dialect, Ruthenian dialects and Slovakian language. A highlander from Podhale will have no problem communicating with them.

- We are Ruthenians - declared Jan Brejcak, whom I met at the orthodox church. A Ruthenian in Podhale means a Łemko. The same in Osturnia. The locals here were lucky. If the border went one kilometer more to the south they would have been deported - as the Łemkos on the Polish side of the border, from around Szczawnica, during operation "Vistula" in 1947. - This is good that the border is vanishing, but a pity that it happens so late - sighed Brejcak when saying good-bye. - But it will be good for young people because everything around will become once again a Spisz (Slovakian: Spiš) country.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spisz

On my way back I met Stefan Sołtys in Polish Łapszanka. He asked if I were coming back from Osturnia. - Finally there will be no more of that border, those bloody barriers and border guards. For years people were walking to the Slovakian side. And those from Slovakia to us. We visited each other in homes, we have common families... Only one had to feel nervous while crossing that bloody somebody's border illegally - he spitted out and started saying good-bye. "Hopefully the old governments will not come back to divide us again. Down with the barriers! The barriers suck!" - he expressed his disgust with fencing the border off by the political rulers.

Today Stefan Sołtys, Jan Brejcak and I will be no longer crossing the border illegally. On Friday the three of us and everybody else will be able to legally walk from Łapszanka to Osturnia through the forest. There will be no gendarme waiting there.
source: http://www.gazetawyborcza.pl/1,75478,4779040.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Bogdan Klich from Iraq straight to Afghanistan
2007-12-20

Minister of National Defense Bogdan Klich is visiting Afghanistan. During the two days visit he will meet Polish soldiers serving in that country. There are 1200 soldiers in the second rotation of Polish Military Contingent (PMC). They are stationed in several bases, such as Ghazni, Sharan, Wazi-Khwa, Bagram and Kandahar. Their role is maintaining security in selected regions and training of Afghan soldiers and police officers.

It is not unlikely that PMC-Afghanistan will be increased by 300-400 persons. Such possibility was officially announced by the MoD chief several days ago. Additional soldiers will be servicing helicopters (probably four transport helicopters M-17 and four battle helicopters M-24) and be a part of Polish Provincial Reconstruction Team.

The helicopters, which are to ready for exploitation at the beginning of the 3rd PMC rotation, will make our forces independent on the American transport. Currently there are 40 PRTs in Afghanistan - teams of civilian and military personnel, responsible for security and reconstruction of infrastructure. So far Poland does not manage any such team. There is a Polish sub-unit though that protects a PRT managed by Swedes in Mazar-e-Sharif.

The Afghan mission appears lately in Polish media almost exclusively in context of event in Nangar Khel village where several civilians have died due to action of our soldiers. There were children and women among the victims - three have been permanently maimed. In relation to this event seven soldiers of the 1st PMC rotation have been arrested; six of them have been charged with killing of civilians.

According to CBOS poll in the beginning of December the information about the event has been influencing growth of skeptical opinion regarding Polish engagement in Afghanistan - 83% of Poles do no support our operation in that country.

Minister Klich flew into Afghanistan straight from Iraq, where he and Prime Minister Donald Tusk were visiting Polish soldiers in Camp Echo, Diwaniyah.

In late evening the minister visited a patrol base, several kilometers from Camp Echo, where Polish soldiers operate together with Iraqi forces. They serve there in 3-5 weeks rotation cycles.

As explained by COL Wiesław Mruk, a battle team commander, the base has been created last September. The main task of soldiers is patrolling the neighborhood.

-This translates to assuring safety of local population in eastern and south-eastern quarters of Diwaniyah. This also make it possible for civilian-military cooperation, such as humanitarian activity - said Mruk.

-The situation in the neighborhood stabilizes due to our regular activity. We patrol the neighborhood 24 hours a day. This is a kind of a power demonstration, but first of all this is the lesson for Iraqi forces. We visit their posts - and there are dozen or so of them - supervise their operation, teach and suggest - he added.

Currently there are 900-soldiers from the 9th rotation of PMC in Iraq; the 10th rotation will take over in turn of January/February. According to a proposal submitted by the government to the head commander of Polish Armed Forces, President Lech Kaczyński, the mission should end before October 31 next year.
source: http://wiadomosci.onet.pl/1661804,11,bogdan_klich_z_iraku_prosto_do_afganistanu,item.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

American commander does not see any problem with testifying
Investigation re. death of Afghan civilians
2007-12-21
TVN24, PAP

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/857678587f4e5444218f5475b-24-1.jpg
American COL Schweitzer agrees to testify at the Polish prosecutor's office, photo www.army.mil (http://www.army.mil)According to MoD chief Bogdan Klich - the commander of the task force containing Polish Battle Group in Afghanistan, COL Martin Schweitzer, told him that "the operation of Polish soldiers in Nangar Khel was an error but not a criminal activity." According to Klich the American colonel told him that their forces have two-three such incidents a month, while Polish soldiers noted only one such incident during the 10 months of their Afghan mission.

COL Schweitzer assured Klich that he was ready to testify in Polish prosecutor's office if proper procedures are satisfied - that is if Polish government asks proper American authorities for it. When asked whether this would happened Klich redirected the question to Minister of Justice Zbigniew Ćwiąkalski.

The next move is for Minister of Justice

Minister of Justice said it already on Wednesday that he did not see any problems with interrogation of COL Schweitzer. As he said - the simplest and the quickest way would be for the American commander to voluntarily contact the prosecutor's office[1]. He also informed that "the investigation does not indicate so far that the shooting order was given by Americans". But he added that such possibility will be surely examined.
...
source: http://www.tvn24.pl/-1,1533064,wiadomosc.html
translated by MZ

[1]Minister Ćwiąkalski might be a lawyer but his response is quite naive. Did he forget that Americans do not recognize any international military authority as superior to their own?

No American commander is going to testify in any foreign office on its own volition. Not that COL Schweitzer has anything to hide but he certainly will not do anything by himself on international forum. He is entitled to comment privately but he is just a colonel not some goddamn Undersecretary of State. And American authorities - Pentagon or whatever - will not allow themselves to be dragged into some irrelevant problem of some irrelevant country. They have enough their own problems of this sort.

The best what will happen is this: interpolated by Polish authorities the Americans will politely respond with a written statement that this was just an error - just as the colonel said. They might attach some documents stating that Nanger Khel was a Taliban nest of wasps - similar to the transcript from a shura that was convened shortly after that incident, and provided by the governor of Paktika.

Notice that that shura was dealing with other similar incidents at that time and the Polish one was just one of them - mentioned just in passing. The Governor of Paktika is really tough on his own people - he often tells them that such things are their own fault because they harbor the Taliban.

There is one lesson from this story though. Poles just love self-inflicted wounds. This Polish media "court proceedings" are just too much for the good of Polish soldiers serving abroad. One has to look at this in the context: look how much good things done in Wazi-Khwa went down the drain due to the publicity. Thousands of versions of that story have been circulated and still circulate via news and damn blogs of Polish half-baked philosophers, armchair generals, peaceniks and just maniacs. Today nobody remembers any of the stories we have collected on this forum. These were not the juicy media materials.

Everyone else would let the story like this quietly die, the soldiers would be found guilty or not, and if yes - they would be given some occupational slaps on the wrists or some suspended jail sentences. But no Poles - oh no. We are so self-righteous.

This serves no one. There should be an investigation of course, but an internal one - and a serious one of course, under the scrutiny of a parliamentary commission, etc. - with all the consequences and assurances that such thing would not happen again. Re-training the army, internal scrutiny - and all such things. And then the final public statement. But not this never-ceasing media hoopla.

[Mishka Zubov]

Two Georgians captured at the green frontier
The immigrants were too tired to continue walking; one is in critical condition

2007-12-22
PAP

Two illegal immigrants - citizens of Georgia, who crossed a so-called green frontier have been apprehended last Friday evening near Wołosate, Bieszczady Mountains. Doctors described the condition of one of them as critical.

- About 1800 hours an officer on duty in City Police in Rzeszów received a phone call from a man speaking Russian who said that he and his colleague were at a border pile near Wołosate and that they were too tired to walk. The police sent this information to the Border Guard (SG) and the Mountain Voluntary Rescue Service (GOPR) - said Elżbieta Pikor, a press spokesperson of Bieszczady Unit of Border Guard in Przemyśl.

A joint SG and GOPR patrol found the men at about 1000 meters a.s.l Their condition was very serious. They could not move on their own power. In the last few days the temperatures in upper parts of Bieszczady Mountains oscillated around minus 10 degrees Celsius, it was windy and snow was falling.

- The immigrants have been taken down the mountain in snowmobiles, where the ambulance was waiting for them. The men are now in the City Hospital in Ustrzyki Dolne. The condition of one of them is critical - added Pikor.

A Border Guard helicopter has been sent to the place of the event in order to check with the night vision device whether there were any more persons attempting to cross the border there. No one else was found.
source: http://www.tvn24.pl/0,1533164,wiadomosc.html
translated by MZ

Before anyone starts complaining how penetrable the Schengen border is one has to realize that Bieszczady - though not the Alpine kind of mountains - are not that easy to cross and also to protect even in the best of the weather conditions.

Yes, the border guards have all that sophisticated night vision thermal equipment that can spot a hare few hundred meters away but they are not everywhere.

Have anyone seen this 1991 movie, "Journey of Hope", based on the real life tragic events, of a dozen or so Kurds crossing the Alps on foot to Switzerland?

[Mishka Zubov]

I am really pleased to translate this rebuke, because I share my dislike of the reporter in question. This man is way over his head in manipulation of facts. I have not met him, I have not seen him but yet I can sniff a cheater, a lover of cheap shots and a dilettante a mile away - especially when he tries to presents himself as a hero. I feel like puking when I read his articles. Actually, I stopped reading them and by extension I avoid Dziennik as well. I am glad that others see it too. As a wise man once said: There are so many other beautiful occupations, mister, like a cobbler or a camel driver - one does not need to be a journalist.


In response to the article in "Dziennik"
by Włodzimierz Głogowski
Saturday, December 22, 2007

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/irak_1.jpg

On December 19, an article by Andrzej Talaga "We have not been able to win against the rebels" („Nie udało nam się pokonać rebeliantów”) appeared in the daily "Dziennik". The article has caused an outrage of the soldiers from Multinational Division Center-South (MND-CS) in Iraq.

Intensive operations undertaken by the soldiers of the 9th rotation of the Polish Military Contingent (PMC) in Iraq and conducted for five months have brought a significant improvement of situation in Diwaniyah, as well as in the entire Qadisiyah province. As we all know, Polish soldiers have paid for it in their health and in the life of one of them. And this is why they cannot understand how one can express such opinions, which misinform public opinion and completely ignore achievements and devotion of the soldiers from the 9th PMC rotation in Iraq.

The article of Andrzej Talaga is a picture of defeat in the province, for which the Polish contingent is responsible. The reporter was embedded with the 8th rotation and he describes his own experiences. The situation described in the article has never existed and it especially does not exist today, when the entire city and the province are under control of Iraqi security forces, supported by coalition forces.

Polish soldiers enjoy a support of local population in the areas of their operations. Despite many press communiques informing about current situation and about operations carried by MND CS - being sent to Polish press, "Dziennik" included - the author did not bother to get in touch with the divisional command or even the press office in order to obtain reliable information.

-The attitude of the journalist and the image presented in his article is a result of ignorance, cynicism and lack of respect to daily sacrifice and effort of Polish soldiers serving in Iraq. Most of us assess this article as willful manipulation - stated MAJ-GEN Tadeusz Buk, a commander of MND CS.

Currently Diwaniyah has been cleared off the criminal gangs and extremist cells during joint operations of MND CS, the 8th Division of Iraqi Army and local police. There has not been a single attack on coalition forces and Iraqi security forces for more than one and half month now.

Diwaniyah is effectively controlled from 14 patrol posts situated in key points of the city, which have been built during "Lion Pounce" operation. During that operation 198 men have been detained, suspected of terrorist or criminal activity. Many weapons and ammunitions have been confiscated: 302 machine guns, more than 15 thousand rounds of ammunition, 128 IEDs, 62 mortars of various calibers and 107 kilograms of explosives.

The effects of these operations form the conditions for carrying a decision about transfer of responsibility for the province security to the local authorities and Iraqi security forces. Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated during his visit to Camp Echo that the soldiers serving here bring a glory to Poland and may be proud of their achievements in Iraq.

Photo.: COL Włodzimierz Głogowski
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10685&Itemid=29
translated by MZ

[Switek]

I am really pleased to translate this rebuke, because I share my dislike of the reporter in question. This man is way over his head in manipulation of facts. I have not met him, I have not seen him but yet I can sniff a cheater, a lover of cheap shots and a dilettante a mile away - especially when he tries to presents himself as a hero. I feel like puking when I read his articles. Actually, I stopped reading them and by extension I avoid Dziennik as well. I am glad that others see it too. As a wise man once said: There are so many other beautiful occupations, mister, like a cobbler or a camel driver - one does not need to be a journalist.

source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10685&Itemid=29
translated by MZ


The real problem of "Dziennik" is that the newspaper have no good jeournalists knowing problems of military service and military at all. There is one journalist Izabela Leszczyńska from "Dziennik" who is very often criticised on one Polish military forum. Her only qualification is she comes from military family... Articles written by her are almost always full of basic mistakes.

[Mishka Zubov]

Imtech: Breakthrough In Poland, Orders Worth 70 Million Euro

Gouda, Netherlands, Dec 21, 2007 - (Hugin via ABN Newswire) - Gouda, The Netherlands - Imtech (technical services provider in Europe) announces that it achieved a major breakthrough in Poland in 2007. In this rapidly developing East European country, Imtech is now one of the leading technical services providers. Imtech recently won orders worth more than 70 million euro on the Polish market.

Poland has the biggest economy of the ten new countries that joined the European Community in 2004. For 2007, a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of about 280 billion euro is anticipated. This GDP increased by more than six percent in 2006 and a growth of more than seven percent is expected for 2007.

In line with the Imtech strategy 2012, Imtech is aiming at further growth in several countries in Eastern Europe and is therefore increasingly active in Poland's rapidly developing market, with a concentration around Warsaw and Gdansk. The market is being reached successfully both from the Netherlands and Germany and from the branches in Warsaw and Gdansk, with activities in buildings, industry, mobility and on the maritime market. This has resulted in extensive orders. In the buildings market, for example, Imtech is responsible for all the technological solutions in large multifunctional shopping malls and various giant cinemas in Warsaw, Siedlce and Rybnik. In the industrial market, Imtech has received orders from customers such as VW in Polkowice and BAT in Warsaw. In the rapidly growing mobility market, Imtech produces solutions to problems by developing the technical systems for complete traffic interchanges where cars, public transport and pedestrians intersect each other. For example, Imtech was responsible for all the intelligent traffic solutions in and around the Krasinskiego, a large traffic intersection in Warsaw. For the Polish Navy, Imtech is responsible for part of the technology in a new corvette (95 metres long) that is to be built in the Gawron Class, which will be used for guarding the eastern border of the European Community. Imtech's responsibilities include the platform automation (IPMS, Integrated Platform Management System) and all air and climate solutions.

In 2008, Imtech will continue to work on reinforcing its position, expanding the local branches in Poland, recruiting new Polish specialists in technical and other fields and strengthening the service activities.

Further information Imtech N.V. Pieter Koenders Manager Corporate Communications Telephone: +31 182 54 35 28 E-mail: pieter.koenders@imtech.eu www.imtech.eu (http://www.imtech.eu)

Imtech Profile Imtech N.V. is a European technical services provider in the fields of electrical engineering, ICT (information and communication technology) and mechanical engineering. With approximately 18,000 employees, Imtech realises annual revenue of 3 billion euro. Imtech holds strong positions in the buildings, industry, infrastructure / mobility markets in Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Eastern Europe, Spain and the UK and in the global maritime market. Imtech provides services to a total of 12,000 clients. Imtech offers added value in the form of integrated and multidisciplinary total solutions that lead to improved operating processes and higher yields for clients and their clients in return. Imtech also provides solutions that contribute to a sustainable, liveable society, for example in the field of energy, mobility, safety and the environment. Imtech shares are listed on the Euronext Stock Exchange (Amsterdam), where Imtech is included in the Amsterdam SmallCap Index (AScX) and the Next 150 index.

source: http://www.abnnewswire.net/press/en/46491/Imtech:.html

[Mishka Zubov]

The last day race has been just finished few minutes ago. Sebastian Kawa is the overall winner. Congratulation Sebastian! This must have been a nail biting event for him, after the disastrous first day, the only one race win but a steady climbing in the overall qualification. The top group of several pilots are really in the same class. Congratulation to all!

I'll post the final standings after the results are available.


Race Diary
24.12.07 - Day 5

5.23 - Peter Harvey crosses the finish line first today, with Kawa closely behind which give him the points to claim the title of World GP Gliding Champion. Congratulations Sebastian Kawa from Poland. Second place on the final leaderboard is tied between Uli Schwenk (GER) and Ben Flewett (NZE).

4.43pm - First turnpoint: Bruce Taylor is first through the turn. Flewett has lost height and is struggling and searching. Steve Jones is going well, conserving height, flying sensibly. A gaggle with Schwenk and Kawa are running a little behind.

4.30pm - The fleet are making their way north across the Mackenzie Basin, tip-toeing from thermal to thermal, scrutinising the climb rate of other gliders and deciding which direction to take. Erwin Sommer is flying well, Flewett flying a little off track to find the climbs.

4.00pm - 3-2-1 Go!!!! The gliders have all passed the start line and the presitgious title of World Champion will be determined by this race.
...

[Mishka Zubov]

Final standing


# CN Pilot Country Glider Total
=============================================================
1. BB Sebastian KAWA Poland Diana 2 30
2. VV Uli SCHWENK Germany Ventus 2ax 25
2. Z2 Ben FLEWETT New Zealand ASW 27 25
4. DW Steve JONES UK Ventus 2ax 24
5. AX Petr KREJCIRIK Czech Rep. Ventus 2ax 17
5. MS Michael SOMMER Germany ASG 29 17
7. DE Mario KIESSLING Germany Ventus 2ax 15
8. 47 Bruce TAYLOR Australia ASW 27 14
8. Y Giorgio GALETTO Italy Ventus 2ax 14
10. K5 Peter HARVEY UK ASW 27 13
11. KW Mark HOLLIDAY South Africa ASW 27 10
12. EQ Christophe RUCH France Ventus 2a 9
13. EX Erwin SOMMER Germany Ventus 2ax 7
14. 29 Herbert WEISS Germany ASG 29 4
15. 7D Didier HAUSS France Ventus 2 cxT 3
15. NB Oscar GOUDRIAAN South Africa Ventus 3
17. IE Vladimir PANAFUTIN Russia LS6c 0
17. TM Tim MCALLISTER USA Ventus C 0
source: http://www.gpgliding.com/results/results/

Poland has a long history of soaring excellence. Many Polish gliders have won or placed high in world competitions, including the SZD-19 "Zefir", the SZD-24 "Foka", the SZD-36 "Cobra", the SZD-55, the SZD-56 "Diana". So the "Diana 2" is simply the latest in a long series of outstanding Polish sailplanes.source: Diana Sailplanes, http://www.dianasailplanes.com/

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/Diana-202-20on-20ground-204.jpg

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/Diana-202-20in-20flight-201.jpg

[Mishka Zubov]

Taking care of inhabitants of Kosovo
by CAPT Radosław KOZIELEWICZ
Monday, December 24, 2007

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kosowo_g.jpg

On December 22 Polish, Ukrainian and American soldiers and doctors organized MEDCAP, a medical aid, for inhabitants of a little Serbian village Gotovusa, at the foothills of Šar Planina mountain range.

- Such operations are big hit among local population. Although at the beginning the attendance was low, with time more and more people started coming to take advantage of free and complex examinations. Just as well that they have not come all at once, since there were no crowds and patients did not have to wait long for a visit - say CAPT Robert Fałek of S-5 POLUKRBAT.

During MEDCAP the inhabitants of Gotovusa and nearby villages could take advantage of expert knowledge and skills of a general doctor, eye doctor and a dentist; as well as obtain basic drugs. The most popular has been the eye doctor due to his thorough examination, quick diagnosis and free eyeglasses handed over right after the patient vision defect has been diagnosed.

During this operation clothes, basic hygienic items and sweets have been also distributed to children; who in response invited Polish soldiers for a joint soccer game at the school yard.


http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kosowo_1.jpg http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kosowo_2.jpg

http://hotimg3.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/kosowo_3.jpg http://hotimg5.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/kosowo_4.jpg

The MEDCAP operation lasted 30 minutes longer than planned due to big number of patients. They all were expressing their gratitude to KFOR soldiers for their care of the poorest inhabitants of Kosovo.

source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10709&Itemid=29
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Soldiers' Christmas Eve in Wazi-Khwa
by MARCIN GÓRKA
Monday, December 24, 2007

Reprinted from Gazeta Wyborcza

The Winter has cut off Polish soldiers in FOB Wazi-Kwa, Paktika, Afghanistan. Traditional Vigil dishes have been delivered there with great difficulties.

The Battle Team "Charlie" is stationed in the southernmost Polish base in Afghanistan, near the Pakistani border. Its soldiers just came back from a three weeks operation against Taliban, where they were supporting Afghan National Army. They have been dreaming about a rest alongside the Vigil's table. Unfortunately the snowfall is such that the base cannot be reached on wheels. And the helicopters also have some troubles in such a weather.

- The weather has significantly worsened last week and an American air transport has its own priorities. There are many Christmas parcels to deliver and the helicopters are distributing them among USA bases in the first order. Our soldiers have to wait - says MAJ Mirosław Ochyra, a spokesman for the commander of the Polish contingent.

Last Friday a special Christmas transport flew into Bagram, where mostly staff members reside. A convoy with Christmas supplies has reached Sharan and Ghazni bases without problems.

- We'll try to send the convoy on wheels to Wazi-Khwa - said last Saturday MAJ Ochyra, with not great conviction. But that became impossible. The BT Charlie soldiers had to accept the thought that they would have a traditional carp dish but only if they prepared it themselves. - We cut out a Christmas tree from a styrofoam - says WO Jarosław Zych, a commander of one of the de-mining patrols in Wazi-Khwa. - But we have to manage the best we can. We are decorating the base with decorations sent in parcels from our families.

WO Zych has been long time outside the base and almost everything what he had received in the parcel is spoilt. - Only the herring and the card, painted by my daughters and myself, have survived - says his wife Dorota.

However, an American helicopter finally reached the base on Sunday afternoon. - They will have the hunter's stew, fish and all other traditional Christmas Eve dishes - enjoys the thought MAJ Ochyra.

The soldiers hope that there will not be any problems with Internet during Christmas and they will talk with their families via Skype. But in this kind of weather the Wazi-Khwa links do not work well. If the Internet is down the soldiers will be left with four minutes telephone talks with Poland.

Dorota Zych will not have typical Christmas as well. She is going to visit her parents, not to be alone with children at home. There will not be a big Christmas tree at home either.

- Daddy used to decorate it up, but there is no one left to do it - explains the 15 years old daughter Paulina. - I always dress the windows up and the balcony each year but I have not done it this time - explains Mrs. Zych. - Mommy is not the same as daddy - adds Paulina.

source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10701&Itemid=46
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

The best Season wishes to Polish and other soldiers on missions abroad, with the "Snowy Lullaby" by Beata Czernecka

Snowy Lullaby (http://www.mediamax.com/mishka_zubov/Hosted/Beata_Czernecka-Sniezna_kolysanka.mp3)

For other soldiers to enjoy the lyrics I attempted my best in the translation below. It does not rhyme but the rhythm has been preserved in the translation.

The "Snowy Lullaby" is taken from the "Blask aureoli" ("Halo radiance") album. [This is a give away sample, so it is OK to copy it]


About the album

"Blask aureoli” is a uniqueness in the music market.
A distingushed actor Andrzej Seweryn and a vocalist with one of a kind voice - Beata Czernecka (Piwnica pod Baranami) have prepared together a Christmas album.
...
The record stands up against other Christmas offerings since this is not yet another version of traditional carols. "Blask aureoli” contains exceptional works for listening during the entire season.
...
source: http://beataczernecka.mp3.wp.pl/?tg=L3Avc3RyZWZhL2FydHlzdGEvNDcwMTcuaHRtbA==

"Snowy Lullaby", a modern lullaby sung by Beata Czernecka, is not a carol, but it still carries a spirit of Christmas. It belongs to a category of so-called sung poetry, very popular on Polish student cabaret scene since 60s upwards - unfortunately in decline in democratic but commercialized modern Poland.

Beata Czernecka and her band are closely connected to "Piwnica pod Baranami" - "The Cellar under the Rams", a student cabaret in Kraków, with very long and noble tradition. The cabaret is located in a medieval building decorated with ram horns - hence the name of the theater.

I strongly suspect that the lyrics of this song are of the authorship of Agnieszka Osiecka - a distinguished poet, and song writer who is unfortunately completely unknown and unrecognized in English-speaking world. She was one of the pillars of STS (Student Satirical Theater) cabaret in Warsaw. “She was a Muse of people, who escaped plebeian, sad, censored reality and they were dreaming about truth and freedom, about a little craziness, about poetry.” - Barbara Hollender. There is an entry in Wikipedia for Osiecka, but its English version - contrary to the Polish one - is very poorly done.

Snowy Lullaby

Go to sleep, softly now, in white downy bedding
Let the heaven's angels rock you to sleep, singing
Let them rock you gently, watch over your dreaming
Lightly now, softly now, not skimping on fluffing
Lightly now, softly now, not skimping on fluffing

As soon as you wake up for new music chores
Let the angels serve you while you write your scores
Let the angels serve you but do not disturb you
Lightly now, softly now, seeking inspiration
Lightly now, softly now, seeking inspiration

Seeking inspiration, they find what is needed
To stop you from early departure to heaven
To stop you from early departure to cosmos
Lightly now, softly now, from falling into sea

Because in sea waters tall anemones float there
And white big whales swim past with their ruby eyes
With their ruby eyes, fins in peacock pattern
Lightly now, softly now, strewing dreamy savor
Lightly now, softly now, strewing dreamy savor

White big whales around us white snow falls down quiet
Lightly now, softly now, snowflakes' whispers calling
Let the snowflakes' shadows rock you to sleep singing
Lightly now, softly now, wrapping world in silence
Lightly now, softly now, wrapping world in silence

[Mishka Zubov]

Back from Iraq mission
by LT Andrzej Pindor
Monday, December 24, 2007

Dusted in desert sand - the military vehicles, helicopters and containers have reached the "Czech Wharf" in Szczecin's sea port. Altogether 65 equipment units of Polish Military Contingent in Iraq have been offloaded.

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A Mi-24D battle helicopter and a Mi-8 transport one were, among other equipment, on the deck of MV "Geise". - Our contingent in Iraq is becoming smaller numerically, it has other tasks now and therefore part of its equipment is not needed there any more - says LT Andrzej Pindor, a press officer of the Military Transport Command in Szczecin. The equipment has been taken, by the low-undercarriage flatbeds of the 10th Logistical Brigade in Opole, to their original military units, where it will be subjected to overhaul.

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The offloading operation in the harbor was coordinated by MAJ Krzysztof Wróblewski, a chief of the Port Group of Movement Control, who is a commandant of Military Transport Command in Szczecin. The Szczecin Command is preparing for the next offloading operations right after the New Year.

source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10710&Itemid=28
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

We do not want to fight, we prefer to help
interviewer: Rafał Kostrzyński
An interview with BRIG-GEN Biziewski from a Polish military base in Afghanistan
December, 18, 2007

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General Biziewski thinks that all EU countries should be involved in reconstruction of Afghanistan. Photo: Seweryn Sołtys/FotorzepaWhat kind of mistakes are you learning from the first contingent rotation?

I am definitely changing the emphasis from strict battle operations to help to local population - from the medical aid to humanitarian activity. For me - these are the very important aid tasks while the battle teams serve mostly for their protection.

Is this change of emphasis a result of the Nangar Khel incident?

No. Every commander tries to implements his tasks according to his concepts. I am significantly independent, nobody is steering me from Poland. I have wise people around me, who advice me about what is good and what could be improved upon.

So what are the tasks of the second rotation?

We have two responsibility zones. The first one is a Special Operations Team, and the second one - Polish Battle Group. But this is not all. There is also Operation Mentoring Liason Team (OMLT), we are present in NATO headquarters in Kabul, we train Afghan national Army (ANA)...

Isn't it to much for a 1200-person contingent?

We are already discussing whether to concentrate our effort in one responsibility zone, but the decisions will be taken during the third, or possibly fourth, rotation.

Do you want to closer cooperate with ANA?

Yes, because such cooperation leads to good social response and adds to our prestige.

At what level is it now? For what I know, the training is still in infancy.

I would not say this. There are currently 55 thousand soldiers in ANA. The target is about 70 thousand. But this is not only the numbers that are important, but also the training. The ANA units trained by our soldiers have to be taught from scratch in order to adapt them to NATO standards. Such training has to last several months, but we have no time for this since these units are needed on the battle field.

How many Afghan soldiers had been trained by Poles?

One battalion, or about 400 people. But the Poles of the first rotation had also prepared one battalion in Mazir-e-Sharif for the battle tasks. Today this battalion fights in Kandahar and this is one of the best trained units.

How about humanitarian aid for Afghan population? During the first rotation there were only seven persons involved in it and some of them were complaining of lack of funds. How many such people are in the second rotation?

Ten.

Is it enough?

No, but we are limited by the contingent size. If it increases then there might be a place for two-three more such teams.

Don't you have a feeling that such effort is being wasted because Afghans need roads and factories, but not underfunded schools or wells, which they do not now how to maintain?

I do not completely agree with this. Certainly, there had been some mistakes earlier, but today every project is being consulted with the population. Our people ask them what they really need and whether they will able to take care of it later.

But this does not change a fact that six years after the American intervention Afghanistan is still in ruins.

Again, I do not agree. Just go and visit the places that did not exist before.

It's enough to visit Kabul.

But Kabul is changing. One could not to drive there before by a road.

One cannot still do it. One can only do it around NATO headquarters and embassies. Rubble clearing of roads for the need of American convoys is just an absolute minimum. One could not possibly do any less.

I do not agree once again. Afghanistan reconstruction is extremely difficult. For example, the schools built by ISAF mission stop operating because rebels terrorize teachers or cut their heads off.

Why do we talk about schools but not about factories or power plants?

It would be beautiful if all EU countries have become involved in Afghanistan reconstruction. There would be factories and power plants then. This is why Poland is seriously considering expansion of aid to Afghanistan. We want to implement our own projects - assuming that there will be funds for it.

Don't you think that Poles will be mission handicapped after the Nangar Khel incident?

No. I think that our task is easier than that of the first rotation, which had scouted the terrain and recognized the threats. And this is not easy because the enemy is unusually intelligent and experienced. One cannot imagine anything more difficult than that.

What kind of mood is in the battle groups after that Nangar Khel misfortune?

I visit the bases regularly, including Wazi-Khwa, where those soldiers accused of shelling the civilians were stationed. The spirit over there is good.

Aren't there are any concerns about revenge of locals?

No. These are experienced soldiers. We discuss such situations with them, because there had been many similar incidents, and we consider how to avoid such errors in the future.

What kind of errors have you made?

Many errors, but I will keep it to myself.

Aren't you afraid that Taliban will use them for propaganda, that they will convince the locals that Poles are criminals?

No, I am not afraid. Whatever has happened, it has happened. Seven people have died and nobody is happy about it in Nangar Khel. But one does not see any enmity against us over there.

One does not see it? When you have brought back the Afghans from treatment in Poland one of the locals planted an explosive on the road.

This was just one man. The Taliban rebellion is weakening. A number of attacks decreases, so does a number of rebels.

When will be the end of this war?

When such a Nangar Khel inhabitant has no courage to plant a bomb knowing that the locals will kill him with hoes for this.

source:Przekrój Nr 51/52/2007, http://przekroj.pl/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=3310&Itemid=50&limit=1&limitstart=0
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

...
Basic information about Polish Military Contingent in Afghanistan (PMC-A)

There are about 1200 soldiers of Polish Military Contingent designated for ISAF operations, drawn from:
17th Mechanized Brigade of Międzyrzecze,
6th Assault Air Brigade of Kraków,
25th Cavalry Air Brigade of of Tomaszów Mazowiecki,
2nd Sapper Brigade of Brzeg,
1st Logistic Brigade of Bydgoszcz,
1st Special Commando Regiment of Lubliniec,
9th Reconnaissance Regiment of Lidzbark Warmiński,
5th Engineering Regiment from Szczecin,
49th Battle Helicopter Regiment of Pruszcz Gdański,
56th Battle Helicopter Regiment of Inowrocław,
Psychological Operations Central Team from Bydgoszcz,
Civil-Military Cooperation Central Team from Kielce,
Military Police .The commander of the 2nd PMC-A is BRIG-GEN Jerzy BIZIEWSKI (a commander of the 1st Warsaw Armored Brigade at home) and the commander of Polish Battle Group (PBG) is LT-COL Piotr ZIEJA (a commander of a motorized battalion, 17th Mechanized Brigade at home).

Deployment of soldiers and workers of PMC-A
Region East
Base Bagram
Command of PMC-A
National Support Element (NSE) team
Kabul
Group no. 3
A team of a deputy commander of Combined Security Transition Command - Afghanistan (CSTC-A)
Gardez
Operational Mentoring Liaison Team – OMLT
Ghazni
Battle Team "Alpha" of Polish Battle Group
Sharan
Command of Polish Battle Group
Battle Team "Bravo" of Polish Battle Group
The basic group of National Support Element
Wazi-Khwa
Battle Team "Charlie" of Polish Battle Group
Region South
Kandahar
Special Operations Team http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/rozmieszczenie2_afganistan.jpg
...
source: http://www.isaf.wp.mil.pl/kontyngent.html
translated by MZ

[wholagun]

how active in combat are the troops? I don't seem to hear much about combat like the Canadians, and Brits, and Dutch.

[Mishka Zubov]

^^^
I do not know whether to laugh or to cry reading your question. To laugh - because you either manage to selectively read every second posts here and therefore you have just missed or ignored the post #830, barely two entries above your own post, or to cry - because your question suggests that my hard translation work is just a waste of time. How much clearer one has to be than to emphasize in bold a gist of the interview with the commander of Polish Military Contingent: We do not want to fight, we prefer to help?

You own me explanation, soldier; Id' rather not to speculate any further because that could lead me to very strange conclusions... :-)

[Mishka Zubov]

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[Mishka Zubov]

The Offering Celebration in Kandak
2007-12-27 08:01:17
Participation in celebration of Muslim religious holidays is one means of trust building between Poles and Afghans.

On December 19 the military OMLT advisors participated in the Offering Holiday, Id al - Adha. It commemorates a story about prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) wishing to lay his son Ismail in offer to God. The most important ceremonies are of course in Mecca (famous stoning of the devil's symbols), but that holiday connect Muslims world over. They start that day with a common prayer, then they lay in offer a sheep, cow, camel or poultry - depending on their financial means. One third of the meat is given to poor, and one third the relatives.

The celebrations in the 1st kandak have been organized by its commander, Afghan MAJ Ataullah Atah. Polish and American advisors, working with the 1st kandak, have bought one sheep and provided several boxes of soft drinks for this occasion. The Afghans too care of the rest.

At 1000 hours, after the prayers, the advisors have been invited to the kandak's area. A sheep offering has just started, which awoke special interest of Poles. The dressing of the animal was an unusual view - one of the soldiers made a hole in the skin and then blew in the air. The meal was prepared in the field kitchen.

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A while later all Afghan soldiers spending the holiday in Gardez have gathered at the official assembly, where their battalion commander wished them the felicitous feast. He then thanked the advisers for the participation in the celebration and for the purchase of the sheep. A list of distinctions was then read and each distinguished soldier was given money price and wishes of Aid Mobarak - felicitous feast, by the advisors and the company commanders in turn.

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After the official muster the military advisors have been invited to the battalion's commander office for traditional tea. On that occasion a present was offered to the kandak's commander by the OMLT commander LT-COL Rafał Sznajderowicz and American CAPT Shawn Polonkey, a commander of Logistic Support Team.

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Other guests started drifting into the staff building - officers from other kandaks and the command of the 203rd ANA Corps. All were invited for the common feast. Aside from the meals, fruits and drinks - delivered from the garrison kitchen, the lamb cooked and grilled in the field kitchen have appeared on the table.

During the meal all those officers who could not spend that holiday at home with their families have received small gifts from the advisors. The kandak's commander has been stressing all the time that such lavish and sumptuous feast was only possible due to Polish and American advisors. A commemorative picture was taken at the end of the event.

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Text by LT-COL Rafał SZNAJDEROWICZ
Photos: CAPT Robert OLEKSIAK, WO Tomasz BARNOWSKI, CPL Michał GRANIS
source: http://www.isaf.wp.mil.pl/aktualnosc_259.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Sheet steel as good as the Swedish one
by Mariusz Kamieniecki
Thursday, December 27, 2007

Reprinted from: Nasz Dziennik 27.12.2007 Blacha dobra jak szwedzka

The foundry in Stalowa Wola will be the first plant in Poland manufacturing armor plates

A dozen or so millions of PLN had been spent by "Huta Stali Jakościowych" (Quality Steels Foundry) in Stalowa Wola on equipment for manufacturing extremely hard steel to be used in production of armor plates of extreme resistance. Until now Polish manufacturers of military equipment have been importing this kind of materials from abroad. There will be a bright future for the Quality Steel Foundry if potential buyers from home and abroad are convinced to the products from Stalowa Wola.

Research and technological trials related to production of armored plate with extremely high resistance, comparable only with famous Swedish steel, have lasted three years. And although the details of work of Stalowa Wola engineers are kept secret the difficulty lies - not by any stretch of imagination - in relevant selection of chemical components of the material and in its relevant thermal treatment, which is assured by special furnace for baking the sheets. Important is also a complicated process of toughening the steel.

The production process is constantly monitored with computers. The equipment purchased to the steel mill cost about 12 millions PLN, but everything indicates that the purchase has paid off. The effect of the Polish technical innovation is astonishing since the specially hardened steel is resistant to conventional missiles. Since the new materials are to be used in production of tanks and armored vehicles they have yet to obtain military certificates regarding tightness and resistance to shooting.

Until now the producers of military equipment have been importing armored plates from abroad, mainly from Sweden, but now there are indications that this will not be necessary any more. The chiefs of Złomereks, which owns the two companies: "Huta Stali Jakościowych" and "Walcownia Blach" (Sheet Steel Mill) that are part of "Zakład Metalurgiczny Huty Stalowa Wola" (Metallurgy Plant of Stalowa Huta Foundry), hope that there will be no problems with sales of the sheet steel - neither domestically nor abroad.

- The initial shooting tests are successful. We are facing now not an easy task of driving our message home to convince potential buyers in Poland and abroad that our product is no worse that the sheet steel made in Sweden or by other manufacturers - says chief of Złomreks Przemysław Sztuczkowski.

Next January there will be training ground tests regarding ballistic resistance confirming to NATO standards. If they are as successful as the the previous tests and if they confirm virtues of armored plates from Stalowa Wola the company counts on exports to Slavakia, Slovenia and South African Republic. They might also be used in production of armored wheeled vehicle Rosomak for Polish Army.

If more and more potential buyers are convinced to the armored plates of the newest generation from Stalowa Wola this might be a golden vein, stabilization guarantee and an excellent business - considering competitive prices as compared to Western manufacturers. The workers of "Huta Stali Jakościowych", whose abilities are no worse than those of the experts from Western companies, but whose earnings are way lower, count on translation of such interest into tangible economical effects.

source: http://redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10727&Itemid=46
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Iraq: Safer in the province
by Włodzimierz Głogowski
Friday, 2007-12-28

On December 27 a conference: Provincial Security Transition Assessment (PSTA) took place in Camp Echo Diwaniyah. The assessment of security after five months of joint operations and the capability of local authorities and the police for taking over the responsibility for the province have been discussed.

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Invited by MAJ-GEN Tadeusz Buk, a commander of Multinational Division Center-South, were Iraqi MAJ-GEN Othman Ali Farhood, a commander of the 8th Division of Iraqi Army; chief of the police BRIG-GEN Saf Kadum; deputy governor of the province Dia’a Abdul Kareem and chief of Security Committee in Provincial Council Hassan Al Bderi. Also present was chief of staff of Multinational Corps in Irak, American BRIG-GEN Steven Anderson.

All participants were stressing improvement in safety of the province, caused by operation "Lion Pounce" and very good cooperation between Iraqi security forces, local authorities and coalition forces. Last December further reduction of crime has been noted and there were no attacks on coalition forces and Iraqi security forces.

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- Despite visible achievements in security there is still a big challenge of equipment and training of Iraqi police. If we manage to achieve a desired level in this respect then we will be able to start discussions next month on making the decisions regarding transfer of responsibility for security of the province - stated MAJ-GEN Buk.

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After the five months of activity of the 9th PMC rotation in Iraq the safety in Qadisiyah province has significantly increased. One of the reason was construction and maintenance of a joint security site (JSS), during operation "Oil Drop", which increases the presence of joint forces - coalition and Iraqi Security Forces - in the eastern part of Diwaniyah.

The next reason is close cooperation with sheiks and inhabitants of the province in the program aiming at protection of the main roads. Local tribal leaders participate in this program, counteracting the terrorist attacks on the roads. The important affect of "Lion Pounce" operation has been creation of 14 control posts in main points of Diwaniyah, manned by Iraqi soldiers and policemen.

Equally important as operational activity is cooperation of local population with coalition forces and Iraqi security forces - aiming at forming safe life conditions and fighting against criminal activity.

Photo.: mjr Artur Surmacz
source: http://redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=362&Itemid=54
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Christmas Eve of Polish soldiers abroad

Kosovo

American guests, Polish policemen invited from their Mitrovica base 100 km away, breaking the "opłatek" wafer, singing carols, traditional Vigil dishes and the midnight (-2 hours) mass.

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Iraq

The main celebration was of course in Camp Echo in Diwaniyah, but MAJ-GEN Tadeusz Buk visited also Polish soldiers in Al Kut and in the patrol bases outside the camp. The multi-divisional international guests have enjoyed traditional Polish Vigil dishes: herring, fish, pierogi, mushrooms dishes.

Other contingents had their own celebration but the commander Buk and the divisional chaplain have participated in every one of them. There was a midnight (-2) mass and then the Polish soldiers enjoyed the tele-bridge with Field Cathedral of Polish Armed Forces in Warsaw.

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Afghanistan

The celebrations were taking place in every Polish base: Sharan, Ghazni, Wazi-Khwa. Not mentioned are Gardez, Bagram and Kabul but I am sure they had some sort of celebration there as well. The Vigil in Sharan was the biggest one for the obvious reason. American guests were invited there as well. Christmas in FOB Wazi-Khwa was also quite sumptuous.

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On the Christmas Day the commander of the Polish Battle Group, LT-COL Piotr Zieja, visited four Polish bases: Ghazni, Warrior, Wazi Khwa i Kushamond. The Kushamond is the smallest base under construction, NW of Wazi-Khwa, but I have no idea what is the Warrior base. Anyone?

Bosnia, Liban, Syria

I am sure that they celebrated Christmas as well - if not invited to Polish embassies or to Polish homes in Jerusalem, or elsewhere, they had to manage their Vigil meals themselves - using the goodies sent by families in Poland.

[wholagun]

^^^
I do not know whether to laugh or to cry reading your question. To laugh - because you either manage to selectively read every second posts here and therefore you have just missed or ignored the post #830, barely two entries above your own post, or to cry - because your question suggests that my hard translation work is just a waste of time. How much clearer one has to be than to emphasize in bold a gist of the interview with the commander of Polish Military Contingent: We do not want to fight, we prefer to help?

You own me explanation, soldier; Id' rather not to speculate any further because that could lead me to very strange conclusions... :-)

I will give you an explaination but you owe me one too. Post 830 doesn't say anything about fighting, and as you indicated, the article talks about prefering to help instead of fighting. Our troops have no restrictions placed on them, given this, I expected our troops to see lots of combat.
Post 830 doesn't say anything about combat similar to the kind the Canadians and Brits face. The articles you translate, which btw is not a waste of time, mostly focus on redevelopment, while important argueably more important then combat, but still this is not combat. I expected our troops to seek out and attack the enemy instead of reacting to ambushes. That was my understand of no restrictions placed upon our troops. By eliminating restrictions I thought would give NATO commanders the ability to use Polish troops in missions and tasks that others would not undertake. Hopefully that clears things up.

[Mishka Zubov]

I have been reporting about Sham Shad operation in several places of this thread. This is a summary of ANA achievement brought by this operation, taken from a non-Polish perspective. Notice that even photos look familiar, because some of them were posted in Polish-written articles.

Before anyone asks again about how come Poles do not fight the same as Brits, Dutch, Canadians do in their provinces then look no further but read carefully.

This is after all about stabilization of Afghanistan. Ghazni has been relatively peaceful for some time now and Paktika is getting better. I hope you do not feel disappointed because of that.

Operation Sham Shad a Success for 203rd Corps ANA

Written by CJTF-82 Operations
Wednesday, 26 December 2007

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The 203rd Corps, Afghan National Army (ANA), under the command of Major General Khaliq, conducted a joint operation named Operation Sham Shad recently with the Polish Battle Group and the Sharana Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT). Operation Sham Shad was conceived by MG Khaliq and executed by the 2nd Brigade, 203rd Corps, ANA and aforementioned Coalition Forces in Western Paktika Province.

The goal of the operation was to separate the enemy from the local populace of the Khels region, including the districts of Sharana, Yousef Khel, Yaya Khel, Khary Kot, Jani Khel, Kushamond, and Dila. 2nd Brigade, 203rd was successful with this separation, which enabled the Sharana PRT and the Polish Battle Group to initiate meetings with key leaders and elders including the Sub-Governor of Yousef Khel and the elders from 5 major sub-tribes. This key leader meeting was followed the next day by a district shura, hosted by Governor Khpalwak. Over 200 people from the Sulimankhel tribe attended the ceremony held in the district center. Governor Khpalwak explained to the people of Yousef Khel that if anyone takes action against the government of Afghanistan or against coalition forces, they are going to be arrested, questioned and held in custody.

He encouraged the Sulimankhel tribesmen to become united and do their best to bring more stability to the region. He also reminded them of the achievements and abilities of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, while highlighting that the insurgents bring despair and destruction to good people.

Members of the Provincial and District government and the district tribes participated in a ribbon cutting ceremony for the recently completed Yousef Khel district center.

A medical engagement, led by ANA doctors, provided treatment to over 150 patients

Humanitarian aid was distributed to the 5 area sub-tribes. HA consisted of provisions to assist the populace through the colder months of winter and included: boots, blankets, stoves, kettles, school supplies, bags of rice, beans, and flour. Additionally, 5 cultural center refurbishment kits were provided to the area mullahs.

The next major shura was in Jani Khel which was attended by over 500 local citizens. The Paktika Chief of Police led the shura and compelled the citizens to assist the Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan in the separation of the enemy. At the end of the Shura, many of the villagers personally thanked General Mullah Khel as well as other members of the provincial leadership for the projects that were provided. The following quick impact projects were started: a new kitchen for the District Center, 10 wells throughout the district, wood for heating the District Center and Mosque, and Bazaar area cleaning. Projects asked for by the head shura leader were a permanent clinic structure, refurbishment of the multi-purpose center, and solar lights for the new DC.

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The final phase of the operation moved to the Kushamond district. Quick impact projects were discussed and the following projects were identified: Bazaar area cleaning, and karez cleaning. These projects were selected because they will immediately employ area villagers. Additionally, two days of medical engagements provided treatment for over 500 people and more than 600 animals. There was some initial hesitancy by the populace to support the medical engagement but the populace soon determined that they could not receive this type of care from the Taliban who had previously controlled the area.

By the end of the operation, more than 1,000 men, women and children had received medical treatment. All engagements were held at local medical facilities (2 at the Yousef Khel BHC and 2 at the Kushamond BHC) and were conducted with the assistance of the local medical providers and with ANA medical providers taking the lead. Additionally, over 600 animals were treated in veterinary operations. The 4 medical engagement operations conducted during OPN Sham Shad enabled the continued development of the medical specialists in Paktika and the 2nd BDE/203d Corps. Finally, the offer of additional medical training was well received, with doctors in Kushamond, Janikhel, and Yousef Khel expressing a desire to attend the Coalition’s 2-week medical training course at the Bagram Airfield Hospital as well as in conjunction with the Sharana PRT for other training.

By the end of the operation, more than 20 shuras had been held in the Khels region. The overall assessment of these shuras is positive. The local populace within the Khels region is receptive to the Government of the Islamic Rebublic of Afghanistan (GIRoA) presence, however, they continue to voice concerns about the presence of Taliban in the area, particularly in Kushamond and Dila districts. Additionally, the local populace expressed concern about the inability of ISAF/ANSF to remain in the area of operation after the operation is over.

Operation Sham Shad offered continued opportunities for the 2nd Brigade of the 203d Corps to broaden their tactical abilities. The planning for this operation was initiated 3 days after the completion of Operation Attal and the Brigade Combined Arms Rehearsal was conducted 3 days after that. Of note, the CAR was the most comprehensive and most well coordinated to date – clearly an indicator of a growing capacity and the retention of skills acquired through experience

Operation Sham Shad also afforded the 203d Corps Headquarters several opportunities to continue their development. While simultaneously tracking the operations of the 2nd BDE, the Corps primary staff planned the 203d Corps spring campaign plan which plans operations throughout RC-East through August 2008 to specifically achieve the following effects:

Secure the people
Connect GIRoA to the people through key leader meetings and Shuras
Meet the initial needs of the people through medical engagements and humanitarian assistance distribution
The planning conference also determined the enduring force laydown of the 203d Corps as they add the 3rd Brigade
Throughout the course of the operation, there was only one injury, which was non-battle related.

Operation Sham Shad highlighted the growing capabilities of the 203d Corps (ANA). This was the first operation conducted with only ANA artillery supporting the maneuver forces. While indirect fires were not employed during this operation, the ANA successfully demonstrated the growing capacity to fight as a combined arms team through their planning for and positioning of their artillery to support maneuver operations. During the operation, the ANA were able to conduct a practice live fire resulting in the first rounds impacting within 200 meters of the target and subsequent adjustments impacting less than 20 meters from the target.

The lasting effects from this operation will be very difficult if not impossible to be reversed by any insurgent or anti-Coalition activity. Some of the achieved effects on the populace of the Khels are:
Population actively rejects groups that threaten civic institutions and economic activity
Government legitimacy recognized throughout the area of operation
Trust and faith gained in government institutions by the populace
The populace demonstrates a desire for participation in the political processes
Balance and cooperation demonstrated between government and traditional authorities for dispute resolution
Access to basic services increased and systems established to preserve the service

[Mishka Zubov]

I will give you an explaination but you owe me one too. Post 830 doesn't say anything about fighting, and as you indicated, the article talks about prefering to help instead of fighting. Our troops have no restrictions placed on them, given this, I expected our troops to see lots of combat.

Post 830 doesn't say anything about combat similar to the kind the Canadians and Brits face. The articles you translate, which btw is not a waste of time, mostly focus on redevelopment, while important argueably more important then combat, but still this is not combat.

I expected our troops to seek out and attack the enemy instead of reacting to ambushes. That was my understand of no restrictions placed upon our troops. By eliminating restrictions I thought would give NATO commanders the ability to use Polish troops in missions and tasks that others would not undertake. Hopefully that clears things up.

There are no restrictions placed on troops. They can go out, seek and attack the enemy if their commanders choose so. But they don't and I hope that the previous article clarifies the issue somehow: the focus is on ANA. And even ANA did not arrest too many Taliban in that operation anyway if the memory serves me right. The Paktika is really getting better, partly because the Americans thrash the rebels (local and imported) badly in the frontier regions, east of the Polish zone of responsibility.

If you are eager to send Polish troops to help Canadians in Kandahar - forget that. Non-restrictions notwithstanding - I just cannot see that this would happen in the near future - until all those NATO armies become truly Rapid Response ready. But as it is now - neither Poles, nor Canadians, nor Dutch would be willing to leave their established bases of operation and go camp in the open - without any protection of the bases.

In other words - If Poles were in real trouble neither Canadians nor Dutch would be willing to move out of their regions into Paktika. So we all rely on Americans because they are the only nations having enough resources and willpower to move their soldiers around Afghanistan. European (or NATO) Rapid Response is only on paper right now.

This is how I see it, but what do I know - I am only speculating.

*** Edit ***
I should add that I have read somewhere that the tactics of the Taliban groups in Paktika is not the same as in Kandahar or Helmand: they are groups of few people only, who plant IDE here and there, rush with quick mortar attack and then they melt away. This obviously dictates how to fight against them. The same source was mentioning that Ghazni has become quite comfortable recently.

I should also add that - notwithstanding all that noise around the bad incident in Nanghar Khel, and all those hundreds interpretations of it - the Taliban had the support in viilages. You can find the evidence of it in the very old posts to this thread and the related ones. You could summarize it this way: Elders are most peaceful and understand the need for cooperation, but they are not in control over young honchos who would run into mountains to join Taliban.

And finally, the agreement between the Americans and Poles was such: Poles were relieving the Americans in the bases that they used to be stationed at. The Poles main role was the stabilization, patrolling, CIMIC, this sort of stuff. Americans, being a cavarly unit, were in turn happy to be relieved by Poles and go out hunting - according to the old good cavalry rules.

[Mishka Zubov]

We continue our coverage of Exercise Stable Guardian. Tonight Natasha Schleper follows U.S. and Polish Soldiers on their latest mission where they'll have to rely on lots of motivation and cooperation to succeed.

Video from Drawsko Pomorskie (http://www.afneurope.net/Portals/main/Media%20Assets/2007/12%20DECEMBER/27%20DEC/STABLE%20GUARDIAN2/STABLE%20GUARDIAN%202.wmv)

[Mishka Zubov]

Dziennik, as usually, blew up two little items out of the proportion and slapped a big headline on top of it: Poland will request more power in Afghanistan. So here is the warning - this article came from the same Dziennik, where Mr. Talaga makes his journalistic career. So rather than repeating their blurb literally I will just summarize them for you, with my own comments.

1. There have been some talks around that all Polish soldiers in Afghanistan should be concentrated in one province only, rather than to be dispersed here and there.

Actually there are not so many of them dispersed - probably most of them are just bureaucrats sitting in Bagram and in Kabul. Hard as I try to count all the 1200 Polish soldiers of Polish Military Contingent, starting with 600 of them belonging to the Polish Battle Group I have really hard time finding them all - and the only black hole must be some cushy offices in Bagram or Kabul.

Let me see:
PBG=600 + GROM=150 + OMLT=100 + NSE=50 + Engineers/Sappers=50 + CSTC=50 = 1000

I am still 200 people short. Their maps list pilots, but no real pilots are there and there are no ground crews either because there are no helicopters yet. I suspect huge bureaucracy ... CSTC is just one of them and should be eradicated as a weed.

So where are those "dispersed" real soldiers, not those bureaucrats, that they want to bring back to Paktika. Well, one company from Ghazni (Battle Team "Alpha"), GROM from Kandahar and OMLT from Paktia. That's it! They do not have anyone in Mazir-e-Sharif anymore.

Moving OMLT is out of the question: no facilities, lack of logistical support; that would be an utter failure, a disaster in training.

Moving BT "Alpha" to Sharan - fine. This is just one company - Americans will not miss it in Ghazni. What remains is GROM: "Poland wants to strengthen position of GROM soldiers who - according to our informers - are not properly used today. Enough of regular patrols and auxiliary operations! Those soldiers are excellently trained soldiers of a special battle unit" - says Dziennik.

Ahoy, General Polko! I remember him talking this thing out loud during his visit to Afghanistan several months ago with the former MoD Aleksander Szczygło. So we know the source of this information if you trust my photographic memory.

2. While I can understand all the above motivations I am very suspicious about the next item: "Unofficially dziennik.pl has learned that the mysterious "change of role" of our contingent mean increasing the weight of our command in the NATO ISAF structures.

Poland wants all Polish soldiers to be stationed in one province. Then our country would take full military control over them."

So here we go: our brass is growing bold, they want cushy positions in NATO. But I am not sure they deserve it yet.

source: http://www.dziennik.pl/wydarzenia/article101613/Polska_zazada_wiecej_wladzy_w_Afganistanie.html

[Switek]

Mishka Zubov, the mssage is simple. We do not want be a puppet of Uncle Sam in Aghanistan, anymore... Current situation couses that de facto, fighting components of our contigent is a part of 82nd Division...

[Mishka Zubov]

Actually there is a difference between the 82nd division and CJTF-82. The latter is not the American structure. I know that the newspapers in Poland do not see any difference between the two but I would expect something better than that from you.

Why de-facto? What is forcing us into 82nd division?

Polish contingent must be part of something - it is currently part of CJTF-82. Do you think if this is called differently it will be beneficial for Poles? Lt-COL Zieja is a deputy commander of LT-COL Schweitzer. What's wrong with his position? Why doesn't he do what he wants?

No Switek, a cynic in me (although normally I am quite gullible) says this: seek all those who will benefit from it, find out why they want it done, and how they will execute it. Those are the three questions the lawyers usually ask when solving the crime: who, why, how.

Just show me the generals. :-)

[marlowe]

Polish Minister of National Defence Bogdan Klich confirmed today that in April/May 2008 we will send additional 400 soldiers to Afghanistan.
http://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/Wiadomosci/1,80269,4796060.html

[sp2c]

If you are eager to send Polish troops to help Canadians in Kandahar - forget that. Non-restrictions notwithstanding - I just cannot see that this would happen in the near future - until all those NATO armies become truly Rapid Response ready. But as it is now - neither Poles, nor Canadians, nor Dutch would be willing to leave their established bases of operation and go camp in the open - without any protection of the bases.

I can name you a dozen instances where this has happened but off the top of my head the most significant ones are the rescue effort concerning the Helmand River floodings, defence of the Chora valley and the Spin Ghar offensive (same valley) all concerning Dutch troops, I figure the Canadians do their fair bit of camping as well.




In other words - If Poles were in real trouble neither Canadians nor Dutch would be willing to move out of their regions into Paktika. So we all rely on Americans because they are the only nations having enough resources and willpower to move their soldiers around Afghanistan. European (or NATO) Rapid Response is only on paper right now.



isn't the Polish contribution part of regional command south?
if so then yes both the Canadians and the Dutch (and the Brits and Americans) will send forces to support any major Polish combat operation be it defensive or offensive, just like it's happened on every other major operation in southern Afghanistan.

won't be everything we have because that would be somewhat stupid and it won't be much because nobody really has that much to spare atm but a whole bunch of little bits do make a significant bite :)

[Mishka Zubov]

OK, I should have been clearer here when using the word "camping". Polish units also do camping during long range patrols. The last one in December lasted two weeks. What I really meant was sending troops of one nationality to the region of operation of another one in a moment notice, as a truly rapid response force. As it is now - this require long planning, establishing bases, using all spare resources. And as you said - nobody has that many of them.

I am just trying to envision what would have been involved in taking away one Polish company from Ghazni, say, and moving it to Kandahar. It took them quite a while from the moment of deployment of Polish Battle Group (PBG) in Paktika to its battle readiness. True, these delays were mostly caused by mishaps related to transport over Pakistani territory and by the need to up-armor the AMV and HMMVW vehicles, etc. They already learned few things too. But still - such deployment would take a long time, I think.

isn't the Polish contribution part of regional command south?Only of the special forces GROM. The rest: PBG and Polish OMLT are in Command East - in Paktika, Ghazni and Paktia provinces, respectively.

[sp2c]

OK, I should have been clearer here when using the word "camping". Polish units also do camping during long range patrols. The last one in December lasted two weeks. What I really meant was sending troops of one nationality to the region of operation of another one in a moment notice, as a truly rapid response force. As it is now - this require long planning, establishing bases, using all spare resources. And as you said - nobody has that many of them.

can name examples of that too :P
Dutch involvement in operation Achilles for one or the Royal Irish (welsh? I dunno supposedly some Ghurka's as well) deployment to Uruzgan but these were/are part of Southern command's strategic reserve and as you say below, the Polish contingent is part of Eastern command so they won't likely be showing up any time soon

this unit (a company afaik) is in fact ready to move at a moment's notice anywhere in the sector, the current commander used to bring it with him when he rotates in but this is now done by the Brits so the next commander (Dutch) won't be bringing extra troops for this purpose


I am just trying to envision what would have been involved in taking away one Polish company from Ghazni, say, and moving it to Kandahar. It took them quite a while from the moment of deployment of Polish Battle Group (PBG) in Paktika to its battle readiness. True, these delays were mostly caused by mishaps related to transport over Pakistani territory and by the need to up-armor the AMV and HMMVW vehicles, etc. They already learned few things too. But still - such deployment would take a long time, I think.

again, I can't speak for the Polish military company's are moving around (both inside and outside the province) fairly often without much notice

for instance when the Taliban attacked the town of Chora there wasn't much time to prepare the ground before the 500 or so troops from 2 different camps counterattacked.
The reason why things take so long normally is because everything has to be perfect and everybody needs to be involved (or at least on the payroll) that's not to say that things can't go faster if the need arrises
I don't believe the Polish contingent is unable to move a company from the base into combat or more fast (within range of the vehicles) if they have to


Only of the special forces GROM. The rest: PBG and Polish OMLT are in Command East - in Paktika, Ghazni and Paktia provinces, respectively.

well that explains it then, of course you're not going to see any Poles in ISAF South, I doubt the Americans are rolling troops out of eastern command to support southern command either unless it gets real bad :)

[Mishka Zubov]

Especially that the recent events in Pakistan - including Benazir Butto assassination - make them all biting their nails; the Pakistani frontier is so close and sudden influx of rebels from Pakistan is anticipated.

According to minister of defense Bogdan Klich - "Assassination of Benazir Bhutto means destabilization of Pakistan, which may have some impact on destabilization of the entire region, including Afghanistan." He has also ensured that "Polish soldiers are safe; they have good protection of intelligence and counter-intelligence."

Polish prime minister Donald Tusk said in passing: "The only reason we think about reinforcing the military mission in Afghanistan is to increase safety of Polish soldiers."

As already reported - Klich announced increase of Polish contingent by 400 soldiers in April/May and concentration of Polish forces - presumably in Paktika province only.

BTW, Klich statement about good intelligence in Afghanistan seems at least exaggerated. Have not they talked for months about self-inflicted injuries and how those structures had been destroyed by purges?

[Mishka Zubov]

Regarding those additional 400 troops. The Pakistani event seems to be used as an excuse to reinforce the earlier announcements about helicopters and PRT in the minds of public opinion. Minister of Defense Bogdan Klich clarified it during today's interview: 180 of them will be servicing the eight helicopters, which Poland is going to send to Afghanistan.

One can only conclude that - according to the earlier hints - the remaining 220 persons will be most likely devoted to Polish PRT in the making. And public opinion should not have any problems with any of the two reasons: one is a sheer necessity and the other one has acceptable humanitarian dimension.

The good news is that there won't be any disagreement between the President and the Prime Minister this time.
source: http://www.tvn24.pl/0,1533603,0,1,wiadomosc.html

[wholagun]

to clearify for you MZ, I am not dissappointed that Poles get get involved more and don't go out and help other states. However, that was my understanding of the Polish mission. It's not that I am upset or dissapointed that we get go out on more hunter killer missions. Being Polish-Canadian you can understand my desire to help out Canadian soldiers. Either way it just goes to show that Canadians are always given the toughest missions. Dippe, Ypres, Somme, Vimy Ridge.

[Mishka Zubov]

I can understand your sympathies, of course. I was just displaying my skeptical attitude. And this is not the end of this war yet; let's pray for the happy end for all.

And yes, some of those WW1 and WW2 battles have resulted in terrible Canadian casualties. But I'd rather not to get into historical discussions now. Needless to say that many nations have suffered terribly: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_War_II_casualties.

[Mishka Zubov]

Several days after winning his fifths title of World Gliding Champion Sebastian Kawa has claimed another success. On Friday he has won in Air Games in Wanaka, New Zealand. All pilots who had participated in the Omarama Grand Prix took also part in the Wanaka games. The Europeans have packed their gliders and are ready for flight home.

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/Dec28-D.jpg
All of the pilots pose for their official portraitWith the GP family breaking up, I will have some more thoughts on the GP when I get back stateside. But I will leave you all with the final and most fitting glider activity of this event.

At the end of the task the four remaining German pilots did not dump their water and landed short on the runway. After a short time back on the ground, all four took off, organized themselves into a trailing line abreast over the field, then made a high speed pass down the length of the field in front of the crowd, dumping water, and then peeling one glider way in the missing man formation in honor of Herbert Weiss, “29”

Herbert, you are missed.source: http://timmcallister.blogspot.com/2007/12/december-28-2007-last-day-of-air-games.html

[wholagun]

I can understand your sympathies, of course. I was just displaying my skeptical attitude. And this is not the end of this war yet; let's pray for the happy end for all.



but they always gave the Canadians the hard battles p-) and we never disappointed.

[Mishka Zubov]

A price of glory

- Will you go to war again?
- Sure, I will. I am a soldier, this is my profession.
- Aren't you afraid?
- No. I will become a black devil again.
- A devil?
- This is how we were called by the locals because we would appear suddenly at night, like the devils, making commotion among terrorists.

Jan Mariański puts aside the support stuff, which helps him with walking. Unconsciously, he slides down a sleeve of his shirt, as if he was trying to hide the traces of sears. He has just finished talking to his brigade commander. General Różański has promised him that a new Rosomak would be waiting for him, in place of the old one - damaged by the mine. The talk between the commander and the private first class, a driver, was friendly and open.

-You will get better, come back to the service - the vehicle is waiting. But if you do not fully recover and have to say good bye to the uniform - come back anyway. You will always have your place among us, you will always find work here - assured the general.

-I will come back. Few more weeks of rehabilitation, the doctors will check on the state of the nerve connections on the right side of my body, and I will report to the service - says Jan.

He is still slightly ill-at-ease due to notoriety around him. Reporters call or visit him all the time. A while ago a principal of a high school from Świebodzin invited him for a meeting with her students. Jan has promised to come. After all he has been re-convalescing for several weeks in this town, in the "Lubuski" Rehabilitation-Orthopedic Center. And this is not the end of it yet.

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/ArmyCommMed.gif http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/commendation-medal.jpg
Polish PFC JAN MARIAŃSKI from 17th "Wielkopolska" Mechanized Brigade of Międzyrzecze, wounded in the mission in Afghanistan, has been awarded US Army Commendation Medal. He was also awarded US Army Combat Infantry Badge for multiple participation in life threatening battle operations. The ceremony took place on November 27 in "Lubuski" Rehabilitation-Orthopedic Center in Świebodzin-I will visit the students but I will not tell them everything. I will be talking about climate, scenery, a soldier's honor. Not much about war. They should not listen to stories about people hunting people - he explains.

When he was ready to go to Afghanistan his parent were in a very sad state. They had been listening to some tragic stories of an acquaintance of theirs, a Russian who fought there in the 70s. Jan was explaining that he was a soldier and that he did not wear uniform just to avoid the service abroad.

Ania, whom he just then met, and whom he wants to marry now, was not happy either. He was explaining to her: - I am a soldier and a soldier is like a doctor, always ready to serve. Ania, a master of pharmaceutical science, pretended not to understand. When he called her few months later from an American field hospital, telling her that he had been injured, she cried. Today, her knowledge of drugs and various creams helps him in faster recovery. They live together now. They are going to get married next year.

Murderous Afghanistan

-At the beginning it was Sharana, taking over the Rosomaks, doing their up-armoring. Some Taleban rocket attacks. Later we were often cooperating with Americans. One time we went for a month with them into the mountains. Those were the true battle operations. We were driving very often during the night, using the night vision devices. We were also using thermovisual devices. The locals could not understand how come we could see them at night several hundreds meters away - adds Jan.

PFC Jan Mariański will remember the night on August 11-12 to the end of his life. The patrol base [most likely Ghazni - MZ] was about 55 km from the main base in Sharana. Jan's platoon has just returned for a rest after 12 hours protection of American engineers building roads. Just after they have finished their supper the alarm was raised at 2200 hours. The drivers quickly installed their night vision devices. The Polish unit of quick reaction force rushed to help an American platoon that had been shelled upon. After reaching the ambush spot they could not see a trace of any terrorist any more. They searched around; nothing was happening. Luckily none of the Americans was wounded. Both commanders ordered the return to the base.

- I was driving first, using NVD, about 10 km/h - recollects the soldier. - We had to get back on the road at a spot close to the villages nearby. The road was narrow. There were tall walls on both sides. Rosomak was climbing up. Just after the top - a sudden report and blast - everything at once. Rosomak jumped out like a paper toy. I was thrown out of the seat and my head hit the hatch. I fell down and was thrown up again. I fell down again, breaking the back of the seat. My chin, right side of the face and my hand were burnt by fire.

-I could hear computer warning about the system failure in my earpiece. I quickly turned off the ignition key to shut down electricity. There was plenty of smoke inside. I was afraid that we were burning. I started removing fuses. I shouted to my friends asking whether everything was OK. I was probably in shock. I did not feel any pain. When we realized that we were not on fire the gunner started checking the terrain around. All was clear. The order was given to exit from the vehicle. I crawled through the assault partition and reached the road. I stood up and suddenly felt that my legs were giving up. I started feeling acute pain in my back and neck. I remember the medics appearing. They took off my flak jacket, put a corset on me and bandaged my hand.

Return with dignity

It all seemed to him like seconds, even though the entire action lasted quite some time. When they reached the base a medevac helicopter came in and American doctors took care of him. He was told before the evacuation that he was a victim of a sophisticated ambush.

The first attack that day on Americans was only a trick aiming at getting the Poles out of the base. After the Rosomaks passed the top of the hill the ambushers started arming the explosives, which must have been planted few days before. The ignition mechanism was simple: few R-20 batteries, cables to the ignition and two separated sword blades, wrapped in burlap. When the first wheel drove over the sack with the blades, the circuit got closed and the charges exploded under the second wheel, right under the driver's compartment.

So far Rosomaks are non-destructible for Taleban. They had not been able to effectively eliminate a single vehicle with its crew. A fact that one Rosomak was able to continue with the operation after hitting an IDE and loosing one wheel, or that another one did not even slow down after being hit by several RPG missiles must have astonished the terrorists. Neither can they count as their success their attack on PFC Muszański's vehicle.

-The vehicle will be repaired and my wounds will heal too - says Jan. - Right after that explosion I was transported to some American base, which name was not even known to me. They did thorough radiology tests, I was given some morphine and a satellite phone so I could call home. They took me later to Bagram base and dozen or so days later I was flown to Poland by a governmental airplane.

The most serious injuries were neck injuries and nerve damages to one side of the body. After one and half months in a corset he can keep his head straight now. It was the flak jacket that saved him from breaking the spine - it enforced his body and weakened the impact.

He and other soldiers returning to Warsaw were welcomed at the airport by their families and the top commanders. There was also the long awaiting first meal at the home country. Later, there were two days with the family and then weeks of treatment and rehabilitation. He visited the 17th Mechanized Brigade after one successive stage in the treatment. Smiling, full of optimism, he was proudly displaying American proofs of gallantry. He was talking a lot about people who had been helping him.

-I have been meeting with great kindness in every hospital. I do not have to wait in line or ask about anything. People seem sometimes surprised when they learn that I was blown up by a mine. Then I have to answer many questions. I explain that I am a soldier and this is my profession.
source: Polska Zbrojna, 51 (599)
translated by MZ

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/ArmyCommMed.gif
The Army Commendation Medal is awarded to any member of the Armed Forces of the United States other than General Officers who, while serving in any capacity with the Army after 6 December 1941, distinguished himself by heroism, meritorious achievement or meritorious service. Award may be made to a member of the Armed Forces of a friendly foreign nation who, after 1 June 1962, distinguishes himself by an act of heroism, extraordinary achievement, or meritorious service which has been of mutual benefit to a friendly nation and the United States.http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/CombatInfantry.gif
The Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB) is an award of the United States Army which is presented to those officers, warrant officers and enlisted soldiers, in the grade of Colonel and below, who participate in active ground combat while assigned as a member of an infantry or special forces unit, brigade or smaller size, during any period subsequent to December 6, 1941.

[SkyUS]

^
Hopefully he will regain his health promptly

[Mishka Zubov]

It all started with an article criticizing lack of sufficient equipment for BOR (Government Protection Bureau) officers - with GROM officers chipping in with their advices (translation posted here: http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2915690&postcount=736), then there was the announcement that the BOR unit would refuse to serve abroad unless their job description changed from peace to military missions - allowing them to purchase by law all equipment they need, and now this.

It seems like GROM is being depreciated again and relegated to auxiliary functions - just as the soccer player Żurawski. :-(

Żurawski depreciates faster than an Italian car: http://www.tvn24.pl/0,1533658,wiadomosc.html


GROM protection for Iraq, Afghan embassies
29.12.2007 11:32

Soldiers from the elite military unit GROM - the Polish equivalent of the SAS - have begun protection duties at embassies in Iraq and Afghanistan, Polish Radio has learned.

They have replace[d] officers from BOR, the Polish government protection bureau, which were recalled to Poland after the October attack on the Polish Ambassador in Baghdad, Edward Pietrzyk.

As yet there has been no decision to redeploy BOR to embassies in both Baghdad and Kabul, though a press officer for the unit, Capitan Dariusz Aleksandrowicz, assures that his officers are ready at a moments notice to return to their posts.

He adds that there is no question that the failure to give sufficient protection to diplomats was due to a lack of resources, as has been mentioned in media reports. “We have had time to modernize equipment…we are ready to protect the posts,” Aleksandrowicz told Polish Radio.

Meanwhile military export Wojciech Łuczak says that the decision to send the elite GROM officers is a good one.

“Under the command of General Petelicki they have been very effective in actions such as in Haiti and there are also many examples of secret operations by GROM which prove its effectiveness,” says Luczak.

In October, The Polish ambassador in Iraq was seriously injured during an attack on his convoy in Bagdad which resulted in the death of one of his body guards.
source: http://www.polskieradio.pl/thenews/foreign-affairs/?id=72594

[Mishka Zubov]

Polish literary hacks and politicians are lunatics - take their toys away before they do even more damage

Three stories illustrate this thesis: an unnamed "expert" who regurgitated the Nangar Khel story again, euro-deputy Siwiec playing a loose ball in the leftist Trybuna in his accusation of PiS and the Super Express revelations about Polish soldiers refusing to shoot. And they all relate to Nangar Khel incident.

A second wave of reports on Nangar Khel incident hit internet again: news, blogs, forums. The phrase "behavior of the Polish troops was appalling" shows up again and again. Particularly painful are revelations appearing here and there on some forums or as comments to the articles describing Polish soldiers as drunkards trying to get female soldiers [presumably US ones] to bed, anytime they can, and so on ... And everything started with one fellow "expert" who regurgitated the Nangar Khel story again with his own revelations added to it. Good going, Taleban and other parties, who are only happy to blacken the Poles, just love to hear such kind of propaganda!

The leftist deputy chief of European Parliament Marek Siwiec, a former chief of National Security Bureau (BBN), SLD, plays a loose ball on his blog - and the leftist Trybuna obliges, by stating that PiS (Law and Justice) party wanted to terrorize and pacify Polish Armed Forces by using the Nanghar Khel incident as an excuse to "demonstrate their punishing hand of justice in lights of jupiter lamps by putting the soldiers in chains and throwing them on the ground." "In my opinion a very stinking affair will soon show up, with Szczygło [former MoD chief - MZ] and Ziobro's people [former minister of justice - MZ] playing the main roles" - writes Siwiec.
source: http://www.trybuna.com.pl/n_show.php?code=2007122908

I have no love for PiS but Mr. Siwiec should know better than that. There are more appropriate channels for handling any kind of investigations rather than his blog and his daily Trybuna for his vendetta against PiS.

The third revelation comes from "Super Express". "Polish soldiers in Afghanistan might stop obeying orders. They moan to their wives that they are afraid of patrolling and shooting because of the Nangar Khel spectre and treatment of their colleagues by military police" - says SE. "For almost two months some of the Rosomak crews did not shoot a single shot" - says one high ranking officer on his return from Afghanistan.

Imagine that - surprise, surprise! And Polish Armed Forces are taken completely by surprise - they do not know anything about it and have no clue what to do about it. But "Super Express" knows what to do - just publish a juicy tidbit in the name of its own glory. Just wait for the next series of headlines to appear in international press soon. Oh, the masochistic Poles just love to self inflict the painful injuries and then continue with their never-ending self vivisections!

[Mishka Zubov]

31 ODN: Workshop for guiding navigators
by 31 ODN
Thursday, December 27, 2007

From December 17 to 21 a training workshop for guiding navigators took place in 31st Command and Guidance Center (ODN). Participating were the Dutch instructors from the Command and Reporting Center at Nieuw Millingen (The Netherlands) - Dutch CAPT A. J. de Graaff and Dutch LT Danny Faber, and the guiding navigators from 21st, 22nd and 32nd ODNs - altogether 30 navigators.

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/1420.jpg
Participants of the workshop in front of a F-16 fighter in a hangar of the 31st Air BaseThe first day of workshop was devoted to the overview: air tactics, image creation of air situation, stages of guidance, identification of air targets, assignment of target groups. During the second day the on-duty battle shift from the 31st ODN was demonstrating a simulated training. After the ODN team has finished its guidance demo the Dutch instructors discussed all stages of the guidance, paying particular attention to the tactics applied by the Polish navigators.

On the third day of the workshop, in cooperation with the 31st Air Base and the pilots of the 3rd and 6th TAS, the demonstration of a F-16 fighter and a simulator took place. One of the Dutch instructors was demonstrating an interception and a dogfight on the F-16 simulator.


http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/2366.jpg
MAJ Artur Jędrych, Dutch LT Danny FABER, Dutch CAPT A. J. de GRAAFF, LT-COL Maciej KrukowskiThe fourth day was devoted to hands on training of Polish navigators under the watchful eyes of the Dutch instructors. The trainees have been divided into four teams and each team was following the same process: first - the observation of maneuvers performed by the instructors, accompanied by its thorough description; then the guiding performed by a Polish navigator, followed by a discussion of each guiding maneuver by the instructors.

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/3.jpg
Dutch LT Danny FABER, Dutch CAPT A. J. de GRAAFF, commander of 31st ODN - LT-COL dipl. pil. Jacek ŁazarczykThe aim of the training was categorizing of guidance related knowledge and training under the control of experienced instructors. The training process is more effective if it is carried via instructor-student method: lecture, practice, discussion of results.

Photos: LT-COL Maciej Krukowski
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10745&Itemid=49
translated by MZ

[tony6]

Good to see our guys improving their skills.

[Mishka Zubov]

"Gazeta Wyborcza" has a long piece on Nangar Khel incident. I choose to translate only its few excerpts - those with either optimistic or otherwise significant streak in them. The other stuff is either already known in one of its dozen reincarnations - and I refuse to participate in such vivisection, waiting for the final military court verdict; or some new finger pointing at politicians, which I also refuse to be a part of. No Polish sauce for me.

To the credit of the reporter, he attempted interviewing many military sources in MoD and in Afghanistan - both Polish and American, which puts everything in a broader perspective. From those I selected only those fragments that I think deserve wider publications.


Death of the beautiful army

Report of Paweł Smoleński from Afghanistan
Gazeta Wyborcza
2007-12-29

...

A major in a field uniform of American army: - Poles do excellently in Afghanistan and this should have been the news on the first pages of the newspapers, and not some Nangar Khel event - the upsetting thing but without a major consequence.

...

A general, a participant of many military missions: - The Nangar Khel incident should be viewed from a broader perspective. This is still too early to comment on anything. But if the prosecutor's position is confirmed ... I will not think about it for a moment. I also wear uniform.

...
A special forces soldier: - We have access to intelligence and I know that mullahs do not denounce Poles as bandits in their mosques. Our translator was not bringing any disturbing news, although we were not directly talking about that event. Our colleagues from other contingents were asking about Nangar Khel, but with restraint, tactfully. This may happen to any soldier to aggrieve a civilian.

I am here for several months now and the threat has grown by about 300 percents. We have no time nor zest to dig in and think about it excessively. The Americans have similar incidents once a week - although in most cases this is a result of bad air intelligence.

...

A US Army major: - I do not understand why such unimportant incident has grown on you to such an extent? Death of civilians happen every week, because Afghanistan is not a Sunday school, the soldiers have not come here for the outdoors party and the weapons are for shooting. We may not like it, we may be sorry. So what? Every war is costly. You go to war and you have to be prepared for paying your bills.

I was in charge of organization of cooperation between our and your soldiers. It was not easy: different language and customs, different procedures, different equipment. But we have managed this and today everything works as it should, or almost, almost. I know by face several hundreds of your soldiers and I am friendly with several dozens of them. They are good guys. I know how hard they took the Nangar Khel event.

You should better write about how hard is the service in Afghanistan. Try to live in such base for a month; that would be enough to get really sick of this dust, tents, and meals that taste the same every day. I do not even mention battle patrols. But they are brave. You have a very good army.

But I have noticed a strange stress. I have felt some kind of nervousness, although I cannot put my finger on it. It has not shown after that unfortunate shelling - I was noticing it earlier. Possibly your commanders did not like each other, possibly there was something else. Or maybe I am supersensitive. I do not know. This is not my business, but such things do not help in the army. War needs solidarity and cohesion.

...

A lieutenant: - Dirty conscience? We are from the same unit, but we do not know the other rotation. There is no such thing as collective responsibility. Why should I worry about that? There are no Nangar Kher specters here, but preparations for the next patrols.

There are at least 10 versions of that event circulating around. What kind? I will not say anything, this is not my business. The differences are unimportant. What is a difference whether 17 or 20 missiles were fired? Or whether two or three felt on target? One cannot erase that what has happened.

New information? These are the details, because one can imagine many things. I am too tired even to think of what you write about us back home. I have enough of it. You do not let to forget. These are you who wake up specters back home. Missions like this one need calmness. The country should be in it together with us.

...

A general: - Nangar Khel is just an episode; our allies think it too. This is a very difficult mission; I know what I say. Our army does a very good job in Afghanistan, there are very good opinions about us. If this is an assessment of others why do you think we should assess ourselves differently?

What is worth to improve? Psychological preparation. A soldier is made not only of the shooting hands but - first of all - of a head. And the head should be calm, irrespective of circumstances.

Yes, COL Martin Schweitzer, an American commander to whom Poles are subordinate said: "I can talk to a Polish prosecutor." If I were in his shoes I would have said the same, because this does not imply anything.[1] We may wish to have such an interview, we may demand, try to convince them that this is required for the good of the investigation. But we have to be realistic. Every American soldier knows this magic formula by heart: "I am an American soldier, I only obey laws and justice of my own country, an this is not your business."

In addition - as far as I know COL Schweitzer was not in Afghanistan at that time. Consequently he could not order anything, he could not physically do it. He might be a witness but God knows of what. What could he say? Almost certainly nothing more what he says today: Polish soldiers are doing well, and the shelling of the village was an error of a man who had ordered it.

Does COL Schweitzer agree with the reason for the arrests? How do you know that?

I'll repeat what I strongly believe in: Nangar Khel is just a fraction of a permile of what happens here. The fraction should not hide the whole of things. We know what is an attitude of public opinion to our tasks in Afghanistan and Iraq. Do you think that people back home are able to understand that one unfortunate incident should not project on the entire mission? I urge to restraint and keeping everything in proper proportions.

...
source: http://www.gazetawyborcza.pl/1,76498,4796935.html?as=1&ias=4&startsz=x
translated by MZ

[1] This is exactly what yours truly said in one of his previous rants

[Mishka Zubov]

80 years of Dęblin School
The Aviation School was established in 1925 in Grudziądz. Two years later it was moved to Dęblin. More than 1000 observers and pilots graduated from the school before 1939. Graduates and instructors of the schools, such as FLT LT Franciszek Żwirko, took many prizes in international competitions. The school was one of the biggest and best organized aviation schools in Europe.

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/deblin-palac.jpg

The commanders, lecturers and cadets of the "Eaglets School" fought on all fronts of WW2 - including fighter squadrons 303 and 302 in Great Britain. The school was reactivated in 1945. It was functioning as Officer Aviation School until 1968, when it received a status of a school of higher education - Higher School of Aviation Officers, with a right of granting the engineer title to its graduates. Its first engineers pilots graduated in 1971. After another reorganization in 1994 the school was renamed as Higher School of Air Force Officers.[1]
[1]Do not get confused - the adjective "higher" in relation to a noun "school" implies a college level, not a North American high school level. The latter could be called in Poland "middle, or secondary school", although the typical names for those are "liceum" (lyceum) or "technikum" - a high school with a technical profile.

Often, to avoid confusion, the "higher schools" are variously translated as "institutes" or colleges. In most cases they are at slightly lower level than the classical or technical universities (Politechnika) - although the Dęblin school rightfully compares to other technical universities.
The name of the Dęblin school is often translated as Aviation Cadet School, Military Aviation Cadet School, and so on - especially in reference to the interbellum period. But the unofficial name of "Eaglets' School" or "School of Eaglets" is instantaneously recognizable. - MZ


A road to a credit book

A high school graduate, to receive a credit book of Higher School of Air Force Officers, major in Aviation and Space, must have a high school diploma, be at least 18 years old and pass the three-level medical-flight examination.

He/she must also pass a physical fitness test and an English language test. Those who have received old types of high school diplomas or did not write math and physics exams on their "matura" exams [final, oral and written, examination at the end of a high school - MZ] must pass the tests from those subjects as well. The remaining candidates are qualified on the basis of credits shown in their high school diplomas.

Graduates from civilian universities, applying for the Officer Course in Aviation, Radio-technical and Anti-aircraft Corps must have a master degree, positive result of medical examination, and have to pass a fitness and an English language test. The preference are given to graduates with majors agreeable with their chosen kind of corps.

The candidate must not have a criminal record, must have Polish citizenship and have appropriate physical and psychological predisposition to the chosen profession.

The Eaglets' School
by Anna Dąbrowska

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/eaglets.jpg
It is not easy but we know that we have to work hard to fulfill our dreams - say cadets- I choose the "Eaglets' School" because none other satisfies my dreams of becoming a military pilot - says cadet Tomasz Grzybowski, 4th year, major in aviation and space, specialization - a jet pilot.

- I was fascinated by fast military airplanes - adds cadet Mariusz Frączak, 1st year, a future helicopter pilot.

Cadet Bartosz Skrabut (2nd year, a future transport pilot) follows the steps of his father, who graduated from that school. - I do not regret the choice - he says.

Discipline in your blood

0600 hours. More than 300 cadets, including 50 women, from the five-years course and from the officer course for graduates of civilian universities, begin the next day in the Higher School of Air Force Officers (WSOSP).

-We are ready in eight minutes for the morning run - dressed and the bed done - says Katarzyna Tomiak, 2nd year, a future jet pilot. This is a time for the half hour run. Excused are only sick and sometimes the students before the exams.

-Here, if you get influenza you do not go to bed but you attend the lectures because it's so hard to catch up with your studies - explains cadet Sylwia Czerwonka, 3rd year, a future helicopter pilot. - Those who got sick of aviation session are not with us anymore - adds Tomek.

Then there is shower, breakfast and assembly at 0730 hours. The roll call, presentation checking - brushed shoes, pressed uniform.

- We attend the school in field uniforms, but we wear service dress in examination days and holidays - explains Bartek. The military discipline rules all day long.

- During classes one has to stand up, state his/her name and ask for permission to ask a question - explains Katarzyna. One might be forced to exit from the exam sooner than he entered it, if one forgot to knock, did not salute or misspelled the lecturer's name in the credit book.

-I had my pockets sawn in all the time during the initial training period, because they caught me keeping my hands in the pockets - admits Bartek. - But after graduation from the aviation high (secondary) school in Dęblin nothing could surprise me here - he says.

-It's hard to keep up with the rigor at the beginning, but now such control seems ordinary to me - says cadet Michał Fotyga, 1st year, a future helicopter pilot. The discipline gets into your bloodstream.

-When I went home after the initial training period I was folding the wardrobe of my entire family in military fashion - laughs Kasia.

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/cadets.jpg
Cadets: Mariusz Frączak, Sylwia Czerwonka, Katarzyna Tomiak, Tomasz Grzybowski, Bartosz SkrabutThe nightmarish 2nd year

0800 hours - first classes. The lecture rooms and laboratories are filling in. There are 6 or even 10-12 lecture-units daily.

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The first semester is easier but the second one, preceding the examination session and aviation training, is more intensive. It happens that we start and end the day in total darkness - explains Tomek.

Add to it the simulator training. - We are going to acquire new simulators for preliminary preparation of flights - allowing for training of elements related to take offs and landing approaches according to international procedures - explains LT-Col Grzegorzewski, a dean-commandant of the Aviation Faculty.

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/simulators.jpg

The cadets not only study hard but they also attend fitness exercises and they condition themselves physically to flights. They have also access to tennis courts, playing fields, swimming pool, body building gym; but - as they say - they have not much time for this.

According to cadets the worst is the second year - there are so many aviation subjects and so much preparation to the first flights. - We attend theoretical training, we learn about airplane, we study flight techniques and emergency situations - enumerates Bartosz. And - as in every other school - there are some nightmarish subjects, who scare the students.

-Students have trouble with aerodynamics and flight mechanics, thermodynamics, navigation and sometimes cabin flights - explains COL Grzegorzewski. - Construction and exploitation of aircraft, fluid mechanics, mathematics, physics - enumerate the cadets.

Altogether during the five years they will have attended 3000 theoretical classes and they will have flown 250 hours on airplanes and helicopters.

Pinning the pilot wings

1400-1500 hours - a dinner time. After that, if there are less classes and if the commander permits, a free time - meaning a time to study. Here one cannot play a year round and then sit down to a hard study a week before the examination session.

- One has to study systematically, otherwise one might not last till exams. We have tests all the time, often unannounced - explain the cadets. Besides, there is so much of the material that it would be too hard to memorize all of that at the last moment; there are sometimes nine exams in a week long session.

- And if one makes an error on a test, which would mean a fatality in the air, the F grade is guaranteed - adds Tomek.

- Our students word harder than in technical universities - thinks COL Grzegorzewski. - They have to manage three orthogonal modules - receive an engineer diploma, become and officer and become a pilot. Psychically weak, slow in learning and those having health troubles drop out. As the students of "Eagles' School" stress - they learn mostly for themselves and for their own safety.

- "Learn for the exam, pass it, forget it" motto does not work here - we cannot cheat in the airplane and no one will prompt us there - explains seriously Bartosz. And flying is the most important thing to them.

- So far we have been up in the air in Zlins in our aviation club, but everyone has been reinforced in their opinion that we are made for that - explains Mariusz.

- Flights are fantastic. This is fulfilling of my dreams and indescribable experience - recalls Kasia, who prepares herself for the July practices on PZL-130 Orlik. - I am a bit apprehensive of possible failure but I cannot wait at the same time - she says.

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/orlik.jpg

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Tomasz still remembers his first flight experience. - One cannot forget it. Fear is always present - anyone saying otherwise is abnormal. I was happy flying Orlik and TS-11 Iskra - he says.

Sylwia, on the other hand, praises the helicopters. - In 2nd year we tried Mi-2 or SW-4 - the flights are slow and low but I like it.

After every independent flight on a new type of aircraft a student gets lashings. - That means that his colleagues slap him/her across the butt - explains Tomek, laughing.

- Both a student and an instructor feel tense before the first independent flight. The latter worries whether the wings he had pinned on the student would not fall off - explains COL Grzegorzewski. He adds that an experienced pilot knows after two-three flights whether a candidate is a good material for a pilot. - Even though he/she is healthy and has tested well on the simulator he/she might not be able to handle a real aircraft. This is why an instructor is a father, mother and God for a student - summarized the commandant of the Aviation Faculty.


„Per aspera...”

2130 hours - clearance before reveille. Presence of students in dorm is checked, the duty officer checks the order. - It happens that one thinks about weekend all week, makes plans, tries not to fail and then on Friday evening the duty officer finds a clutter in the cabinet and the weekend pass is gone - says Bartek.

But they not always have free weekends because they have to study for Monday tests. From this point of view the school is conveniently located because there are not many temptations in little Dęblin - laugh the cadets.

But there is also time for play. - One of the most important days is the Cadet Day. This is our five minutes. We take control of our school - says Tomek, cherishing the thought of being an honorary school commandant during this year's event.

- Most moving moment? The oath of allegiance. And then the promotion. A moment of glory, first stars, throwing caps at the air - dream the students.

At 2200 hours - lights down and night silence. - The night-stand lamps may be on and a night is the best time for study. It is quiet and one can concentrate - explain the students. They also add: - A night life of cadets does not exist, because we have no strength, no time, no opportunity. When falling asleep they think about units of their dreams, where they would like to be assigned after the graduation - Mińsk Mazowiecki, Malbork, Krzesiny.

- This is not easy, but we understand that we have to suffer first in order to have the effects later - says Tomasz. - One has to give something of herself to fulfill one's dreams - adds Katarzyna. As in the words chiseled at the entrance to their faculty „Per aspera ad astra” - through thorns to stars.

source: Polska Zbrojna no. 51 (599) December 2007
translated by MZ

See also the web page of "School of Eaglets" in Dęblin. They have plenty of photos. http://www.wsosp.deblin.pl

[zvezdah]

It all started with an article criticizing lack of sufficient equipment for BOR (Government Protection Bureau) officers - with GROM officers chipping in with their advices (translation posted here: http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2915690&postcount=736), then there was the announcement that the BOR unit would refuse to serve abroad unless their job description changed from peace to military missions - allowing them to purchase by law all equipment they need, and now this.

It seems like GROM is being depreciated again and relegated to auxiliary functions - just as the soccer player Żurawski. :-(



Seems a shame for GROM to be used(abused) in this way, all that training and end up as bodyguards.
Chris

[Hardrations]

Things sure have changed since I worked with the Polish Army in 74 in Egypt (UN HQ's)

[Mishka Zubov]

Do you care to share any stories?

[Mishka Zubov]

Caroling in Kosovo
2007-12-28

On December 23, on invitation of Father Aleksander Kol, a rector of the largest Catholic parish in Kosovo, Polish and American soldiers came with carols to the parish church in Stubla, where St. Mother Theresa of Calcutta had begun her road as a nun.

The most popular Polish carols and pastoral songs were in the repertoire of the Polish choir, under the direction of CAPT. Fałek. Two Polish soldiers, dressed in the traditional garb of the 21st "Podhale" Rifles Brigade, have spiced the national character of the concert.

After the concert the soldiers have been invited to the parish for a little chat about Christmas traditions of Kosovian Catholics. The visit ended with photo session, delivery of sweets for the kits, and a promise that such Christmas concerts would become the tradition in Kosovo.

http://hotimg3.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/zdjecie_482_4260.jpg

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/zdjecie_482_4258.jpg
Surely they look like true carolers. Two American soldiers wearing capes of the Polish Highlanders, two Polish Highlanders with feathers at their traditional mountain hats, two black soldiers widely smiling, a Polish flag and a beautiful winter scenery of Kosovian countryside - MZ

CAPT Radosław KOZIELEWICZ

source: http://www.do.wp.mil.pl/aktualnosc.php?idaktualnosc=590
translated by MZ


And here are carolers from around Kraków, Poland. Any garb is allowed, but typical are the representations of death, angels, gipsies, devils, etc. The man on the right wears a peasant costume from around Kraków. But those South American accents look kind of surprising to me.

http://hotimg8.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/carolers.jpg
Christmas Waits are amateur musicians who formed a band to sing carols around their village at night over the Christmas period. I was glad to see this wonderful group of Waits while driving through a Polish village near Krakow. And of course i could not resist the temptation to stop and grab my camera:)
source: http://www.flickr.com/photos/_tom/2141612237/in/pool-catchy/*

[Mishka Zubov]

Polish Navy in 2008

Polish Navy will inaugurate new training year on Wednesday, January the 2nd. Ceremonial musters will take place on boards of all navy units where tasks for the sailors will be presented for the year 2008. The new year is particularly important for Polish Navy as it marks 90 years since Marshall Piłsudski ordered forming Polish Navy in the reborn Poland in his decree of November 28, 1918.

Two major tasks face Polish Navy in the new year: modernization and training.

The modernization main tasks are: fitting the Orkan class warships with RBS missiles, reviving a construction program of a modern mine hunter, modernization of the logistic support ship ORP „Kontradmirał Xawery Czernicki” to extend areas of its activity and continuation of construction of the multitasking corvette class "Gawron". The navy airplanes will be also modernized and the navy's anti-aircraft battalion will be equipped with modern battle systems and fire control systems.

Polish Navy will be participating in more than 20 international and NATO exercises in the year 2008. The most important will be the crisis reaction exercises „Northern Coast”, „Neptun Warrior” and „Loyal Mariner”. Rescue forces of Polish Navy will participate in NATO exercise „Bold Monarch”, an exercise in rescue of submarine crews, which will take place in North Sea. Mine-trawlers will be operating as part of international flotilla dealing with dangerous remnants of WW2, still laying at the bottom of Baltic Sea. One such exercise, code named „MCOPLIT”, will take place at the shores of Lithuania.

The navy plans to celebrate its 90th anniversary year round by historical presentations, stressing Polish sea traditions and achievements of many generations of Polish sailors. The most important event will be the 5th World Reunion of Polish Sailors, held during the Sea Days in Gdynia.
source: http://www.mw.mil.pl/index.php?vhost=www&akcja=news&id=18389&limes=
translated by MZ

[Venom PL]

Here is a list of new things that we can expect in 2008 (new equipment, prototypes, designs, projects) in Polish Armed Forces. Of course this is not a full list but it will give a overall look on what is going on in our Army.


Polish Army (Land Forces):

"Rak" (crayfish), In 2008 there should be a functional model of this new 120mm mortar (pre-prototype).
"Homar" (lobster) WR-300 – Langusta (crawfish) with MLRS/ATCMS packet (new long range 300km rocket artillery system).

"Krab" (crab) - 155mm self-propelled howitzer:
- Works on precision munitions.
- Orders on Krab’s
- Logistic transporter on Jelcz 8x8 chassis ?

Rosomaki (wolverines) – Polish AMV Patria:
- WEM (Medical Evacuation Vehicle) probably 2 variants so-called fast and final.
- Spike (Man portable fire-and-forget anti-tank missile) transporter.
- Recon vehicle.
- Integration of Spike with Hifist turret or completely new turret with integrated Spike.
- Further works on installing Szerszen (hornet) active protection system on Rosomak ???

"Ryś" (lynx) based prototypes:
"KRRI" - wheeled engineering recon transporter
"KTWI" - wheeled engineering support transporter

"TUR-2" (aurochs) - LOSP-5 standard
"ŻUBR" (European bison) - LOSP-10 standard (MRAP class).
- Interventional buying of LOSP (Lightly Armored Patrol Vehicle).
- Mysterious new Polish 4x4 vehicle


AA systems

- Programmable ammunition for "Loara" AA System ?
- More "Biała" AA Systems (heavily modernized shylka) ?
- "San" (towed AA gun) – further works ?
- "KUB" (mobile surface to air missile) with Sea Sparow/AIM-120.
- "Poprad" AA system – final configuration for Polish Army ?
- "Wróbel II" naval AA system; modernization and integration witch "Grom" rockets.


Firearms:

- Pistolet Wojskowy (Military Pistol) wz 2008r ???
- Younger brother of ALEX sniper rifle 8,6mm x 70mm (338 Lapua Magnum).
- New variant/modernization of 7,62 mmwz.2001 (UKM-2000) machine gun.
- 12,7mm gatling gun for "Głuszec" helicopter.
- Further works on automatic grenade launcher GA-40 ??
- Introducing STAO-40 to the Polish Army ?
- New 40mm grenade launcher with programmable ammunition.
- Further Works on Polish Future Soldier – project "Tytan" (titan).


Air Force

- New LIFT (lead-in-fighter trainer) aircraft
- Delivery of modernized Orlik TC II two seat trainer and probably TC III prototypes.
- Tender offer for new VIP planes
- Continuation of Narodowy Program Śmigłowcowy (National Helicopter Program).
- Delivery of 2 new "Sokol" helicopters in VIP variant.
- Further deliveries of "SW-4" light single-engine multipurpose helicopter
- Further deliveries of Casa C-295M tactical military transport aircraft
- Further deliveries of "Bryza" STOL transport and patrol aircraft
- Modernization/upgrading of MiG-29 ???


Army Air Force and Navy Air Force

- Deployment of 4 Mi-17 and 4 Mi-24W to Afghanistan (after upgrading and modernization).
- More "Głuszec" helicopters (modernized Sokol)
- Further works on Bryza-Bis (maritime patrol and reconnaissance variant)


Polish Navy

- Further deliveries of Orkan class rocket warships with RBS-15 fire-and-forget anti-ship missiles
- Further development of Gawron class corvette
- Beginning of Kormoran II (mine hunter) program



Originally posted by Gryf001
Translated by Venom PL
Source: http://www.militarium.net/forum/viewtopic.php?t=2841

[Mishka Zubov]

Predictions for the year 2008 - according to crystal ball of Maciej Rybiński, a Dziennik columnist (excerpts):
Moscow will agree on anti-ballistic shield and will even send an elite FSB Alpha unit for protection of those installations against terrorism
Polish soldiers will be withdrawn not only from Iraq and Afghanistan but also from Poland; in its place potatoes will be served exclusively in their jackets [uniforms - in Polish idiom]
All Polish immigrants will come back from British Isles and build a second Ireland on the pagan hilltop Sobótka, near Wrocław, which will become a tourist attraction, greater than Louvre and Disneyland taken together
General amnesty will be announced for all those persecuted by Kaczyński brothers regime; all pardoned persons will be entitled to application for war veteran status
Valentine Day will become a new Poland's National Day in order to stress the attitude of the government to the citizens of Poland
United Nations will agree on transfer of Bermuda Triangle to Poland, which will be stretched between Piotrków, Radom and Lublin to explain reasons for the budget deficit
The Highways Construction Program will finally commence - even if the highways are not built the government will be consistently implementing it
Generally, everything will be good or even better - which I wish you all in New Year - MZ :-)
...source: http://www.dziennik.pl/opinie/article102694/D_Czeka_nas_rozowa_przyszlosc_czyli_horoskop_na_2008_rok.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/zmilowania_350.jpg

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/Zdjecie1.jpg

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[SkyUS]

source: Generally, everything will be good or even better - which I wish you all in New Year - MZ


Happy New Year, I wish to you and your family as well. May this year be better and more peaceful than the old one.

Cheers

[Mishka Zubov]

The Frontier Post
National Daily Published from Peshawar and Quetta

January 01 , 2008 Tuesday 21 Zil Hajj 1428 A.H


ISAF, ANA forces provide medical aid to Paktika
Our Correspondent

KABUL: ISAF and Afghan National Army forces provided medical and veterinarian assistance to the people and animals in Yousef Khel and Kushamond villages, Paktika Province recently.

ISAF’s Sharana PRT, the Polish Battle Group, ANA, 203rd ANA Corps and non-governmental organization providers, provided medical supplies, clothing and medical treatment for more than 800 Afghans. The combined effort gave local doctors and the ANA an opportunity to learn a higher level of medical care and establish a better patient *******.

“I treated patients with headaches, body aches, gastro-intestinal problems and skin diseases,” said Capt. Tammy Lutz, Force Pacemaker physician assistant. The most common illness treated however, was the cold, she mentioned.

Qudertullah, 14, helped his father, a local pharmacist, pass out medications. “We have big hope for (ISAF) forces; we are in need of more schools and medical clinics,” he said. “I hope they bring peace and hope to Afghanistan.”

Veterinary assistance was also given in Kushamond. ISAF forces de-wormed more than 600 sheep during the visit. Veterinary technicians helped de-worm the herds of sheep to prevent humans from contracting diseases from the animals. The treatment also helps put a stop to gastrointestinal worms in goats which cause an economic and nutritional hardship in Afghan communities.

ISAF’s direct provision of medical care and partnering with local civilian doctors creates long-term medical improvements and increases the healthcare capacity and self-sufficiency of the Afghan healthcare system.
source: http://www.thefrontierpost.com/News.aspx?ncat=an&nid=223&ad=01-01-2008

[Mishka Zubov]

Task Force Pacemaker operates in the same area of the Command East as other task forces, such as CJTF-82. But this is not a battle force, this is an engineering force - building roads, bases, culverts, etc. Some Polish and Korean soldiers have been part of TF Pacemaker and you can read about their cooperation here and there on internet, including this forum. BTW, Koreans have finished their tour of duty and said good bye to their TF Pacemaker colleagues last month or so.

The previous post, seemingly from Pakistani source, mentions the combined effort of ANA, TF Pacemaker, Polish Battle Group and NGOs in providing some medical and veterinarian aid to Paktika inhabitants.

The following article is written from perspective of TF Pacemaker but it deals with the same humanitarian activities, mentions in passing Polish Battle Group and describes Kushamond base under development, where some Poles are stationed - partially to protect the American engineers. You might remember those pictures of vehicles floating in a sea of dust and soldiers wading half-knee deep in dust. That's it. That's Kushamond!

I thought that it might be interesting for you to read some news from that corner of the world, even if it is already two weeks old and not specifically Polish.


TF Pacemaker Soldiers Provide Humanitarian Assistance to Afghans in Kushamond Market District
11 December 2007

By Army Sgt. David E. Roscoe
Task Force Pacemaker Public Affairs Office

FORWARD OPERATING BASE KUSHAMOND, Afghanistan - Soldiers of Alpha Company, 864th Engineer Combat Battalion (Heavy), from Ft. Lewis, Wash., provided humanitarian assistance to Afghans in the villages surrounding Forward Operating Base Kushamond to help improve relationships.

Kushamond has proved to be a hot spot for insurgent and Taliban activity. With constant attacks and ambushes on coalition forces during convoy movements and patrols, it is imperative that a friendly alliance is formed with the residents of the surrounding villages near FOB Kushamond to ensure a safe working environment for Task Force Pacemaker Soldiers and coalition forces operating in the immediate area.

The humanitarian-assistance mission not only helped strengthen the bond between the local populace and coalition forces, but also allowed the TF Pacemaker Soldiers to build cohesion with the Polish Battle Group and the Afghan national police who assisted Pacemaker Soldiers with distribution and security for the humanitarian-assistance mission.

Army 2nd Lt. Pranish D. Sharma, A Co., 864th ECB, from Sacramento, Calif., who headed the humanitarian-assistance mission for A Co., stated, “The Soldiers from Team Animal were able to put a smile on the face of the children as each child that came through received a toy, new pair of shoes sized to fit their feet, a sweater and a blanket. Many of the children that arrived at the humanitarian-assistance distribution site were barefoot with little clothing. The Soldiers were more than willing to put in the work needed to set up the humanitarian-assistance mission knowing what impact it would have on the local population. The Soldiers had to hand-load all of the supplies on to the back of trailers the day prior to the mission. Prior to downloading the supplies, A Co. Soldiers, along with other coalition forces, secured the area of distribution and set up over 50 strands of concertina wire spanning 400 meters.”

Forming a peaceful and trusting relationship with the near-by residents of FOB Kushamond, which numbers approximately 450 Afghans, could provide TF Pacemaker and coalition forces with warnings of Taliban and insurgent activities in the area. With this intelligence, troop safety and welfare will be achieved with greater success allowing for the highest level of mission accomplishment for the task force and coalition.

The Kushamond sub-governor and chief of police presided over the distribution and the humanitarian-assistance effort, passing out gifts and supplies to the people in the village. Some of the items distributed included; winter supplies, recreational equipment and food.

Some of the positive enduring effects of the humanitarian-assistance effort is the people of the Kushamond Market District were recognized for their support of coalition operations, gave validity to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan leadership who supported the event, a positive opinion of the coalition efforts in the area was reinforced and needed winter supplies and food were provided for the locals.

Army 1st Lt. Michael J. Kaiser, the Earth Moving Platoon Leader for A Co., 864th ECB, from Parksville, N.Y., stated, “The humanitarian assistance-mission provided necessary supplies to over 75 families so that they could be prepared for the harsh upcoming winter weather in Paktika province of Afghanistan. The total count of family representatives that showed up were over 250 [Afghans].

Team Animal was able to promote Afghan First as we delivered the humanitarian-assistance supplies to the sub-governor and police chief to pass out to the local populace. Overall, I believe the humanitarian-assistance mission will be a success as it allowed coalition forces to show the local Afghan populace that we are truly here to help.”

source: http://blog-ah.typepad.com/blogah/2007/12/tf-pacemaker-so.html

[Mishka Zubov]

And since I mentioned the Koreans in the previous post, here is a bit dated article about them leaving Afghanistan: South Korean Engineers Say Farewell to Afghanistan

Few quotes (link to the full article below):

“Working with various coalition forces for the same goal has been an extraordinary experience. There is nothing that compares to a life under such a rugged environment, and I've been lucky enough to be a part of this great team,” Choi said. “We operated in such an organic, smooth manner. The U.S. Army levelled and graded the ground; Koreans (erected) five total K-Span buildings with Polish engineers taking part … to produce (a) great construction product.”

“Out of all the great memories, the ribbon-cutting ceremony will be a bittersweet, tear-jerking moment,” said Korean Sgt. Kim Min Ki. “We absolutely got to enjoy many activities held to bring all the coalition forces in FOB Sharana (together), like the soccer games between Korean, American and Polish soldiers.”

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/scr_071126-A-9699S--20006.jpg

http://hotimg8.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/scr_071126-A-9699S--20140.jpg
A ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrates the completion of the Direct Support Maintenance Facility at Forward Operating Base Sharana, in Afghanistan, and also the end of a five-year mission in Afghanistan for South Korean soldiers. U.S. Army photo

source: http://www.defenselink.mil/news/newsarticle.aspx?id=48384

[Mishka Zubov]

Poland wants own military zone in Afghanistan
02.01.2008 11:05

Defence minister Bogdan Klich told Polish Radio 3 Wednesday morning that he wanted Polish troops stationed in different parts of Afghanistan to be responsible for one zone – Paktika province.

Klich explained that if such a zone was created, the mission objectives, including peace enforcement and long-term benefits for Poland, would be easier to meet.

The defence minister said that the first talks with the allies on the establishment of a Polish military zone in Afghanistan had already commenced.

The final decision will be made by the US and is expected sometime this month.

Bogdan Klich stressed that the Afghan mission had been the most difficult and dangerous of all the international military missions involving the Polish Army since WWII and the Polish contingent in Afghanistan would have to be increased from 1200 to 1600 soldiers.

He denied that the establishment of a Polish military zone was in any way connected with the assault carried out by Polish troops on the Afghan village of Nangar Khel in August 2007, in which six soldiers have been charged with war crimes after civilians died in a shoot out. (mj)
source: http://www.polskieradio.pl/thenews/foreign-affairs/?id=72728


With all due respect to Minister Klich - When I hear announcements like this two alternatives come to mind: either he is clues about situation in Paktika and Waziristan on the Pakistani side, or he is deliberately misleading the public opinion. The former alternative seems unlikely since Mr. Klich has his military advisors, such as his top man, four star general Franciszek Gągor, or the President's main military (BBN) advisor, MAJ-GEN Roman Polko.

They have their intelligence data, they know how to read maps and they also know how many Americans are currently involved in Eastern Paktika. We are not privy to such details but there are some hints, such as this one from one of the early interviews (APRIL 24) with COL Schweitzer:

In Paktika, on the eastern portion, our 473rd Cavalry Regiment and the 10th Mountain Division's 2nd Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment are actively separating the enemy from the population.This must have changed by now (I believe the mountain battalion is gone by now) but you have your hints: this number is way greater than the measly 400 additional Polish combat soldiers to be added. Here is my simple arithmetic: 400 recently announced - 180 pilots and mechanics - 100 PRT persons = 120 combat soldiers. Add to it the company from Ghazni and the GROM soldiers and you should get around 400 soldiers, one battalion, but this still does not compare to what the Americans currently have over there.

Not so long ago, in June, Poles negotiated with Americans a division of responsibilities in the Paktika province; this was then considered a good deal for the Poles - the unspoken undertone being that if Poles screw up something then there would be the American cavalry coming to the rescue. The assumption was that the Americans would be thrashing Taliban in Eastern Paktika - which they do, while Poles would be doing stabilization in the Western one - which they also do.

Since Minister Klich must obviously know all of that, and he is not naive, he must be preparing the public opinion for the next big increase of Polish contingent in Afghanistan. Let me wave my magic wand: how about moving some of those 900 soldiers from Iraq to Afghanistan?

*** Update ***
The following statement changes things a bit, but it also suggest that one should think twice before rushing with offhand announcements:
"Bogdan Klich adds that Americans would be still responsible for a Pakistani frontier belt, 15 km wide. After the assassination of Benazir Bhutto taking the independent control over this region would be too risky."
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogsection&id=13&Itemid=46&limit=8&limitstart=8

[Mishka Zubov]

LT Kurowski's memorial plague unveiled

A follow up to the post 646: http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2891810&postcount=646

On December 31, 2007, a plague in memory of Polish LT Łukasz Kurowski, KIA in August 2007 in Afghanistan, has been unveiled by Polish BRIG-GEN Jerzy Biziewski, a commander of Polish Military Contingent; American COL Wiliam Wenzler, a commander of FOB Lightning and ANA and ANP commanders at FOB Lighting in Gardez.

During the ceremonial muster of Polish and American soldiers the PMC commander awarded the Bronze Medal of Polish Armed Forces to COL Wenzler and ISAF medals to OMLT soldiers.


http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/tablica1.jpg

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/tablica2.jpg

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/tablica5.jpg

http://hotimg8.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/tablica4.jpg http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/tablica3.jpg

[Mishka Zubov]

Minister of National Defense Bogdan Klich was quite busy today, giving many, many interviews in Polish media. Some of the printed fragments seem not well thought off, too hasty, and some seem quite strange when taken out of context. Add to it the opinions of so-called military experts, including former ministers of defense - some being political enemies of the current MoD chief, and all of this looks like one big confusion.

So let me summarize some facts first.
1. All politicians agree on increase of Polish contingent in Afghanistan by 400 soldiers. No opposition here.
2. Minister Klich considers concentration of all soldiers in one military zone, such as Paktika province. But this is not by Poland alone to decide about it therefore some signals have been sent to NATO headquarters for consideration. The main motivation is the desire for taking a direct command of all Polish soldiers and for manifestation of the Polish presence in Afghanistan.
3. The MoD has been considering plans for taking over an American PRT in Sharana. The motivations varied - from the real desire to help the Afghans to the manifestation of Polish presence in the province. There is a feeling that Poland is under-appreciated by NATO headquarters - as opposed to high appreciation by American commanders in Paktika.
4. Some generals push for having some say in NATO headquarters. I smell a rat here - they seem to think more about their own careers than about anything else.
5. Unfortunately, Klich was too hasty with some of his opinions, and now he is getting cold feet when he realized how costly the PRT can be. Poland will not be getting anything back from this very poor province. He regrets that Poland has withdrawn from the Northern Afghanistan, where it had good relations with the locals and where some recovery of investments were possible. This is not the purest motivation.
6. Minister Klich is going for a three days visit to USA, January 14-17, where he will be discussing some of these issues with the Defense Secretary Robert Gates.

Having outlined the facts - below is a transcript of one of Mr. Klich today's interviews, and some of the opinions of other "experts".



Klich: NATO does not appreciate us
We need to increase our involvement in Afghanistan
TVN24

- Poland should, first of all, assure that our military and political efforts are better noticeable in NATO headquarters - said Bogdan Klich in "24 Hours Magazine". - I treat it as the main goal for Poland right now. Let us show this good side of ours the way it is seen by our direct neighbor, but which is not exactly seen that way by the headquarters. I have the impression that they do no pay attention to efforts of those countries that are not the leaders with respect to numerical quantity. And I have to admit that our contingent - as opposed to what it was in Iraq some time ago - is unfortunately not the most numerous one.

-We do not anticipate any changes in the mission's character. This will continue to be a combat mission, but at the same time we will be implementing humanitarian tasks by part of our forces. This is already happening and more and more such activity must be added.

-Paktika is a very poor and neglected province. The question is whether our country, at this development stage as it is now, can afford such purely humanitarian gesture. In my opinion - not exactly so and therefore we would have to have some additional motivation for establishing a PRT. This is one of the problem we are considering now.

More soldiers, better focused

- This is why we have to increase number of our soldiers - assesses Klich. He also adds that Polish soldiers should be concentrated in one place. The minister has agreed with general Stanisław Koziej, a former deputy chief of defense, that the Afghan mission had not been well organized in this respect.

- Concentration of Polish Military Contingent in Afghanistan is not the main problem of our mission in this country - assesses another former minister of national defense Aleksander Szczygło (PiS). In his opinion more attention should be devoted to reconstruction.

- We cannot afford purely humanitarian missions - retorts Klich, assuring that the mission will keep its military character.

Szczygło however agrees with Klich that Polish contingent in Afghanistan should be much bigger. In his opinion the primary importance is servicing the helicopters to be sent to Afghanistan. - Those are the main problems that should be solved in our Afghan mission - says Szczygło. He added that the Afghan operation is "different than the Iraqi mission, because it is a NATO operation and its main task is destruction as many terrorist threats as possible."

This postulate is however being criticized by general Koziej. Ha said that he was not very "enthusiastic" about such concept.

Pakistan's threat is not that serious

Klich admitted that destabilization in the neighboring Pakistan will influence Afghanistan. - The risk at the frontier belt increases but our soldiers do not patrol it [The Americans do - MZ]. And I do not think that will decide on such step - assured the minister, adding that "our soldiers are well protected by our intelligence and counter-intelligence." - We will be able to predict the enemy's responses quite well - he added.

When to Chad, when from Iraq?

Bogdan Klich once again assured that the Iraqi mission is being gradually reduced. - The work in the ministry should be finished by the end of January - he declared, adding that there is a detailed plan of withdrawal from Iraq: - The itinerary exists and it is being implemented.

The minister could not tell the exact moment of sending several hundred of Polish soldiers to the Chad mission. - They will go when EU is ready because this is the EU mission - said Klich. The reason is unreadiness of EU, especially France, which "has not solved many problems yet." One thing is for sure: - We can afford this mission. However, he did not want to disclose the anticipated costs. - This information is not public - he said.

The aim of the EU peace forces in Chad is stopping a threat of the conflict sprawling from Darfur and assurance of safety and stabilization at the East of the country. Until now 11 countries have declared their participation in the Chad mission. Poland is ready to send 350 personnel.

http://www.tvn24.pl/0,1534036,0,1,wiadomosc.html
translated by MZ

[wholagun]

is all the stuff concerning Doda true? I really don't like her and her music but is all the stuff about her wanting vodka three star hotel and everything true?

olish starlet demands vodka for concert in Iraq02.01.2008 16:44The concert of Polish pop princess Doda, who was supposed to perform for Polish soldiers in Iraq in October last year, was cancelled due to the singer's unreasonable demands, it has been revealed.

30,000 zloty in cash, covering transportation costs and accommodation for a crew of 15 in at least a three-star hotel, and most of all, alcohol supplies for the whole band - these were the demands presented by Doda to the Ministry of Defense for performing for Polish troops In Iraq.

Doda was unfortunately unaware of the fact that Divaniyah, where Polish troops are stationing, has undergone extensive destruction and there are currently no hotels there, let alone those of higher standard. Furthermore, alcohol consumption is prohibited in the whole base.

The negotiations came to a deadlock when Doda's manager, Rafal Rabczewski, demanded that the Ministry of Defense should insure the band's equipment, whose worth was evaluated at over 1.5 million zlotys.http://www.polskieradio.pl/thenews/human-interest/?id=72778

[SkyUS]

Well, that surely is one way to get out of her promise to the soldiers. The MOD could buy better protection etc. for soldiers instead of sending her there. But she might be a boost of morale for the soldiers.

[Mishka Zubov]

Well, she definitely denies it - saying that they simply decided not to go to Iraq after they had received some news about another wave of suicide attacks. But she promised to give a free concert to the soldiers after they come home from their tour of duty.

Doda like Doda, but a former MoD Szczygło, who must have known all the details of the deal, supports her explanation - suggesting that Doda withdrew from negotiations after the attack on ambassador Pietrzyk.

Now, that's interesting. If it is proven that he has lied than this could be the last nail to his political coffin.

Unfortunately nothing will be learned from this sorry affair if he is telling the truth: tabloids will remain "tabloidal", news carriers will pretend that their integrity has not been compromised, and the public - although feeling duped once again - will continue reading/watching the media anyway.

I definitely learned something from that Polish media circus today (I refer to Klich revelations, not this Doda story): I became so suspicious of any printed word that I triple check multiple sources if possible - unless I have a definite audio-visual or audio proof of any questionable event. Yes, I saw snapshots of both Doda and Szczyglo saying what I have mentioned above.

[Mishka Zubov]

Three bombers arrested
by Włodzimierz Głogowski
Thursday, January 3, 2008

http://hotimg8.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/jazda.jpg

After intensive search by the soldiers of Multinational Division Center-South (MND CS) three suspects - responsible for many IDE attacks on Iraqi security forces, civilians and coalition soldiers - have been detained.

Thanks to well planned and efficiently executed operation of the soldiers from Special Forces Formation the surprise was complete. The detention took place in Afak, 30 km east of Diwaniyah during night hours on January 2/3. The suspects - three brothers - are responsible, among other things, for forming new terrorist cells in Qadisiyah province. They have been wanted for criminal acts and attacks since 2004. Many Iraqi civilians, police and soldiers have died because of their attacks. In 2007 they participated in a rocket attack on Camp Echo, Diwaniya.

The detainees have been transported to Camp Echo and are currently under explanatory proceeding.

-The recent detentions are the result of well planned and lightning speed operation of our soldiers from the special unit. Aid and cooperation of local population was an important helpful factor - said MAJ-GEN Tadeusz Buk, a commander of MND CS.

Photo: MAJ Artur Surmacz
source:
http://redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=362&Itemid=54
translated by MZ

[perdurabo]

i think we should concentrate in one afghani province send more troops (it should be 2000-2500) instead going to Chad, Iraq, Golan, KFOR, SFOR and other places, we are curently sending abroad quite big number but they are spread around the globe in small numbers instead we send more trops to one place and our allies do similiar move (eg exchange 900 pl troops from iraq with similiar number of us troops in a-stan...)

[~~~~]

hey, can anyone enlighten me on what's going on with those woodland lookalike uniforms in Afghanistan? it's not the first time I see such disguise. aren't those ANA uniforms?

http://img232.imageshack.us/img232/9979/1660pe9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[Mishka Zubov]

Good question. The article that accompany this picture mentions three group of soldiers taking part in the operation: Battle Team B (Sharana), CIMIC and PSYOPS. This picture appears to be showing soldiers delivering children vaccine and drugs to the local hospital. That part of operation was run by CIMIC.

Could it be that the picture shows the American PRT soldiers from Sharana, as they often work together with Polish CIMIC?
*** Edit ***
Unless ANA uniforms are also used for physical work, as some kind of coveralls or fatigues. I presume they are US made, so quality is assured.

[wholagun]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQgKzYxzwPs&eurl=http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=515209&page=32

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ik8uXBVEj8

[wholagun]

What is up with the music? HAHAHAHAHA MON is in desperate need of a someone with proper marketing skills. Still not as good as Ukranian one.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cH_E6YSQqTo&eurl=http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=515209&page=32

[Mishka Zubov]

[Misspelling at the tittle above, cannot correct it]
Army cajoling

Well, this is a good spot, but the concept is not new at all. There are 53,000 Google entries filed under the ancient rhymed phrase "Za mundurem panny sznurem" (Girls line up behind the uniform) including several hundred videos and similar number of photos.

Many patriotic paintings of Polish painters could be considered the early form of army propaganda - with the subject of soldiers and girls appearing quite often. With passing years this theme has become a subject of jokes and satire too.

And if you want good music or songs there are plenty of those to find too - beginning with the immortal "Przybyli ułani pod okienko" (The uhlans have arrived and knock at the window) and ending with the dirty songs, such as "Czołem panny, w górę kiecki, jedzie ułan jazłowiecki" (Hello girls, frocks up, an uhlan from Jazłowiec is arriving).

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossakw_ulan.jpg
Wojciech Kossak, "Ułan i dziewczyna" (Uhlan and girl), oil on wood, c. 1925, 15.7x20.8 cm, National Museum, Kraków http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/Ranny_kirasjer.jpg
Wojciech Kossak, Ranny kirasjer i dziewczyna (Wounded cuirassier and girl) Jerzy Kossak, grandson of Juliusz Kossak, son of Wojciech Kossak, stays overshadowed by his father and grandfather. He was a gifted painter, he knew how to paint, but he was lacking something. He did not have major painter's ambitions, he was satisfied by mass copying of the subjects of the kind Uhlan-horse-girl, as well as painting many copies and replicas of his own paintings. He has left however quite few good pictures behind. http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/Spotkanie_u_plotu.jpg
Jerzy Kossak, Miłe spotkanie u płotu (Nice meeting at the fence), 1937. Oil on cardboard. 30 x 40 cm.http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-zolnierz.jpg
Jerzy Kossak, "Żołnierz i dziewczyna", (Soldier and girl), 1926, Oil on cardboard, 38 x 46 cm, private propertyhttp://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/suchodolski-ulan-dziewczyna.jpg
January Suchodolski, "Ułan i dziewczyna" (Uhlan and girl). Oil, 65.5 x 100.5 cm, private propertyhttp://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/wojsko-07.jpg
Old postcard with an illustration to "Pan Tadeusz" by A. Mickiewicz. Here is scene of Pan Tadeusz and Zosia. Painted by Jan Wasilewski

[Mishka Zubov]

Rosomak becomes more Polish
by Zbigniew Lentowicz
2008-01-04
Reprinted from Rzeczpospolita Rosomak bardziej polski

The armored vehicles Rosomak, envied by our allies after its combat baptism in Afghanistan, is made in half with the components manufactured in Polish factories.

The army contract with "Wojskowe Zakłady Mechaniczne" (WZM) in Siemianowice for delivery of 690 vehicles for almost 690 billion PLN assumed faster "domestication" of the AMVx8 vehicle - designed by Finnish Patria. The Scandinavian construction technologies of that combat vehicle of newest generation have proved difficult though - the domestic companies needed some time for the preparation of the production before they could start cooperating with WZM.

This year will be a breakthrough. The hull of Rosomak will be welded with armored sheet steel made by "Huta Stali Jakościowej" (Quality Steel Foundry) (Złomrex group), which has been working on it for the last three years. "The highest steel quality must be first confirmed by the final tests" - as is made clear by Adam Janik, responsible for technologies in the Siemianowice plant.

Also with a delay, after additional agreements with Italian Oto Melara, the combat turrets will be assembled by "Zakłady Mechaniczne Bumar" in Łabędy.

After a prolonged offset negotiations with its Italian partner the Warsaw's "Przemysłowe Centrum Optyki" increases its participation in production of the vehicle's fire control system.

Director Janik estimates that among 2500 parts and components (including the engine), used for construction of the vehicle, half of them come from domestic factories. More than 50 domestic manufacturers participate in the program.

The most important elements of chassis are being delivered by "Fabryka Maszyn" - owned by Finnish Komas Oy - from Janów Podlaski. The mechanics from Janów have just celebrated the delivery of the first 100 complete chassis.

According to special wishes of the Polish army - the systems of internal communication, Fonet, are manufactured by the private company "WB Electronics" from Ożarów near Warsaw; radio stations are delivered by "Radmor" from Gdańsk; the navigation systems - by "Wojskowe Zakłady Elektroniczne" in Zielonka; filter-ventilation - by "Radiotechnika" from Wrocław; and air conditioning - by Webasto from Warsaw.
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10847&Itemid=46
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Our "Bomber" flew in for Christmas
by PIOTR POLECHOŃSKI
Friday, January 04, 2008

Reprinted from Głos Pomorza, 4.1.2008, Nasz „BOMBOWIEC” przyleciał na święta

A youngster from Koszalin among the future best world pilots

Kajetan Łapczuk from Koszalin is 19 years old and - as the only Pole - studies in the legendary American Air Force Academy. Every day he runs, attends lectures, hears yelling that he is nobody and fights in ring like a true boxer. - America is another world - he says.

This is exactly like in American movies. - You woke up by yell, the yell accompanies you all the time and you go to sleep with great yell in your ears - says Kajetan, smiling. Every so often a higher ranking cadet springs up in front of the freshman, almost touches your nose with his and shouts straight into your eyes. - What's up, cadet?! Don't you know how to make your bed?! Missing your mommy?! There is no mommy for you here: this is American Air Force Academy!!! - he chants the last words as if he was driving nails into your brain. The only thing you can do then is to yell back as loudly as you can. - Yes, sir!!!

Kajetan says that at the beginning one is in shock and sweats from fright. Later on one understands: this is just a game. They yell at you as if you were the worst wuss, but nobody will call you a name other than "cadet", they will order you to make several hundreds push-ups and run until you fall down, but nobody will touch you with a finger. Full respect. - And when you say that you are not an American and that you do not understand everything - they take you aside and calmly repeat: politely and quietly - laughs the young Pole.

One out of eight

Kajetan is proud that he was admitted to the American school as only one Pole. He is there since June, and only now - since he had flown over the ocean - he has visited first his family town. Only few years ago he has graduated from the junior high school here and was thinking what to do next. Not that he was building airplane models and planning to fly them later. The only thing he knew when graduating that he wanted to learn something different than most of his colleagues. One day someone mentioned "senior high school in Dęblin". Why not? - he thought. He applied, passed the exams (including difficult fitness test) and was admitted. Three years later he knew he was in right place. He started dreaming of flying and was waiting for entering Higher School for Air Force Officers.

In meantime his school was visited by American officers with a proposal for some students to study in United States. The school suggested eight candidates. Americans choose only one - Kajetan Łapczuk. [This is one of the programs sponsored by US Embassy in Poland - MZ]

-There were various tests, but I think that my good knowledge of English was a decisive factor - recalls Kajetan. From then on everything went on with lightning speed: an official invitation, a personal congratulation from Aleksander Szczygło - then the minister of national defense, a farewell to the family and a long flight to Colorado Springs. This is where one of the most world prestigious military schools is located.

I saw them crying and vomiting

PFC Kajetan Łapczuk was not afraid to go. He likes challenges, as he says, but he has never thought of studying in American schools. He was curious how it would be, what the Americans would be like. But after the arrival his only worry was to learn how to breath and not to pass out. Colorado Spring is located 2000 meters a.s.l. Over there everyone - who used to live in lower altitudes - starts breathing hard and holding to the handrail - only after climbing few steps of the staircases. - It was not easy but after some time everything went back to norm.

He was learning the layout of Academy building for several days. He was assigned to a two-persons room with a Texan. - A fine guy. He still cannot pronounce my name correctly - says the cadet. And then the hell started. One and half month of training during which Kejetan was falling down on his bed completely exhausted at the end of every day. He would hear that he was nobody and knew nothing 24 hours a day.

Their life was being organized by the older cadets, an it was planned to the smallest detail - from the way that the bed must be made, to the length of one's pants to the time dedicated to one's breakfast. The smallest deviation from a rule and the three older cadets would spring near the unlucky cadet - yelling at his ear that he were nothing but zero.

Often the yell would be accompanied with the order of push-ups or keeping one's body to the standstill on the straighten hands. Similarly - during the morning one and half hour of a physical "katorga" (wake up: 0415 hours!). Run and push-ups, push-ups and run. - And all over. I saw how the others cried and vomited, but I did not give up - says with pride the 19 years old. - The Dęblin experience paid off. I have managed.

Kajetan says that cadets have no watches nor cell-phones. They know not what time a day it is, neither what they will be doing five minutes from now, nor when they will finish their training at a given day. They learn whether they will go to a gym or to a psychology class only right before the classes start. Kajetan quickly understood that such "controlled haze" serves something, that this 24 hours a day punishment has some sense.

- The idea is to teach us acting under a strong stress. They do not care to humiliate us just for sheer humiliation. This is a very well thought off system of training and shaping one's hard backbone. I like it - says Kajetan.

Poland or Russia?

Besides him, there are 13 foreigners from all over the world among several hundred of the first year cadets. They all keep together. Kajetan is most friendly with a Serb and a Lithuanian. They have promised each other that when they reach the third year they would be taking out on the freshmen - they would mostly yell at them that they have not learned yet to correctly pronounce their names. - My name is Łapczuk, the Lithuanian's is Szmitas, and the Serb's - Udovicić. This will be fun - smiles Kajetan.

According to him the Americans know nothing about Poland. There is no lack of those who think that Poland is part of Russia or was such not so long ago. For them Polish and Russian sound similar and they often take him for a Russian. - Americans are scared of Russians very much. I do not know why, but they are afraid of Russians and that's it - stresses Kajetan. When he understood it he started taking advantage of it ... in boxing.

- I started boxing because this is part of our first year program. I have never done it before. But I like it. After several sessions the sparrings started up. I - standing in ring - was yelling at my sparring partner that I would destroy him. And I was trying my best to speak English with a Russian accent. That was enough to make him pale from fright - he recalls. He has lost few fights, he has won few other ones but he already has his boxing nickname. - They call me "the Polish bomber" - he proudly says.

After a month and half of the most rigorous training the cadets were given a little bit more freedom and they were also given free time on Sundays. "I did not know what Sunday was until that time." Everyone was assigned to a foster family whose role is to serve as a real one for a cadet. He takes dinners with them and meet with them in his free time. - My "family" is fantastic. This is a couple with two kids. They treat me like their own son and I feel at home with them - assures the cadet from Koszalin.

I did not bring any shame on anyone

Kajetan Łapczuk is flying back to States in a few days. He will finish his first academic year at the turn of June and July. He will decide on specialization during the second academic year.

- I have not changed my mind. I want to be a pilot - he says. But he already knows that he has changed a bit. He was always self assured but he is now even more so. For now he has passed the most important exam of his life. He did not let his Polish superiors down, and what's more - he did not let himself down.

- I did not bring any shame on anyone. Poles do not have to have any complexes. If only the language is not a barrier one can quickly become convinced that we are quite educated nation, quite often more than our American peers - says Kajetan. He has learned from Americans one thing so far: everything depends on you alone and nobody else. - You must not break down. And when you fell down you must stand up. They drive this into our heads from dusk to down - he says.

Facts

The 19 years old Kajetan Łapczuk is the first Polish soldier for the last 90 years who studies in the American Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. To be admitted to this elite school he had to pass the American "mature", pass fitness tests and go through a qualification interview with the Air Force attache of USA embassy in Poland.

The studies in Colorado Springs will last four years. The cost of studies - $65000 a year - is covered by the American government. Poland pays only for his airfare from and to Poland.

After the graduation he does not have to be a pilot. He may decide on a lawyer of an engineer career. He dreams of piloting but he does not exclude working for military agencies connected to Polish-American affairs.

http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10855&Itemid=46
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Talks Bogdan Klich – Robert Gates on January 15, 2008 in Washington
2008-01-04

American Embassy in Warsaw disclosed, even before the Polish MoD took the official stance on this matter, that the first meeting between ministers of defense, Polish - Bogdan Klich and American - Robert Gates, will take place on January 15, 2008 in Washington.

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/i-i08-01-009zakheimdov.jpg
Dov S. Zakheim, a chief of the Pentagon budget in 2001-2004, currently a grey eminence of the American defense finances. It is his signature under the Polish-American agreement that guarantees return home of the Poles serving in Iraq - together with their equipment - on expense of USA Department of Defense. White House PhotoIt is known that during the initial talks of minister Klich with the ambassador of USA in Warsaw, on December 7, the decision was taken that MoD chief will pay a visit to Gates in January 2008. The Americany Embassy, while publicly announcing the first date of the visit on their web page, informed only that after their talks the official lunch will be served in the afternoon.
[It is already known that this will be a three days visit - MZ]

Even though the program of the first American visit of the Polish Minister of National Defense is still being detailed with Pentagon it is already known that the first dialog Klich-Gates will concentrate around three issues: an operation of withdrawal of Polish contingent from Iraq, restructuring of our involvement in ISAF/NATO mission in Afghanistan and the date of return to talks regarding the anti-ballistic shield against long range missiles. The latter talks are carried by Ministry of External Affairs, but in consultation with MoD.

According to the spirit and the letter of the 2003 agreement between Dov S. Zakheim, a Pentagon budget chief, and Junusz Zemke, then the deputy minister of national defense, the Americans carry the costs of transport of our soldiers and their weapons and equipment to and from Iraq. Pentagon is also responsible for our food, water and fuel in Iraq. The MoD expenses are for the wages and equipment only. But the latter, as everyone knows, wears very quickly in the difficult war conditions.

According to our information, Poland does not have to pay for the withdrawal operation of the personnel and equipment. The operation must only be well planned, organized and harmonized with the operations of the American war machine. This is what supposes to be a part of Klich-Gates talks.

The military personnel will be probably ferried on board of American civilian air carriers, mobilized by Pentagon, from Iraq to the Ramstein Air Base. The equipment will probably return on decks of chartered sea freighters.

A decision must be taken, however, regarding dismantling of the bases where the Poles are stationed. This could be however avoided if the infrastructure, which was built by us, is taken over by the units of Iraqi Army, currently under organization and training - such as the 8th Division of Iraqi Army. In such a case a significant part of our sleep and service containers could be transferred to Iraqis.
source: http://www.altair.com.pl/
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Humor: Off topic, but I love to see when a politician shoots himself in the foot
[A politician of any stripe, but its good when it happens to be PiS]

Fact: Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk promised in his election campaign that he would use regular airlines for his private and public travels, rather than the governmental (expensive) airplanes.

Fact: Donald Tusk travels every weekend from Warsaw to Gdańsk to join his family there.

Innuendo: Joachim Brudziński, a secretary general of Law and Justice (PiS), a party of Jarosław Kaczyński, said that the announcement of Tusk about traveling by regular airlines are a sheer theater. He stated that Tusk, contrary to his previous declarations, flies by governmental machine every week to Gdańsk.

Response by Tomasz Arabski, a chief the Prime Minister Chancellory: Since the election day the governmental airplane TU-104 has travelled on the route Warsaw-Gdańsk 16 times - and only one time with Tusk on board.

That was it, a very laconic message. And then he delivered the log of the TU-104 flights to the reporters.

Fact: The log shows that the airplane has travelled 16 times: 1 time with Tusk and 15 times with President Lech Kaczyński on board.

He-he-he-he. That was a good shot Mr. Brudziński - straight into the foot of the brother of your boss!

source: http://www.tvn24.pl/-1,1534263.1,wiadomosc.html

[Mishka Zubov]

A separate thread:
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2965601&postcount=1

[Mishka Zubov]

'Get them Polish out of your house or I'll burn it down'

http://www.guardian.co.uk/g2/story/0,,2235208,00.html

Interesting story in the extent of malignancy it covers. If anyone wants to bring this topic in any public thread on this forum he is welcome to it. But I am not surprised at all in such combination of criminal and racial behavior; I have predicted it long time ago - it's all covered by a simple "critical mass theory": problems are inevitable when number of immigrants exceed some critical mass.

[Mishka Zubov]

Military in Polish Painting

Taken from Gallery of Polish Painting Masterpieces (http://artyzm.com/)
- containing 445 artists, 2880 paintings -

This is by no means an exhaustive collection, this is only what this particular gallery has to offer.

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/ajdukiewicz-scena-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/ajdukiewicz-scena.jpg)
Thaddaus von Ajdukiewicz
"Scene from the 1863 Insurrection", 1875, oil on canvas, 43 x 88 cm, private collection

http://hotimg2.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/bagienski_wejscie-th.jpg (http://hotimg2.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/bagienski_wejscie.jpg)
Stanislaw Bagienski
"The Polish Legions Entering Warsaw", 1917, Polish Army Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg3.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/bagienski-pojenie-th.jpg (http://hotimg3.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/bagienski-pojenie.jpg)
Stanislaw Bagienski
"Watering the Horses", 1937, oil on canvas, 74 x 99 cm, private collection

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/brandt-fantazja-th.jpg (http://hotimg5.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/brandt-fantazja.jpg)
Jozef Brandt
"Batalistic Scene", sketch, 1873, oil on canvas, 29 x 50 cm, private collection

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/brandt-battle-th.jpg (http://hotimg16.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/brandt-battle.jpg)
Jozef Brandt
"Battle against Tatars", c. 1890, oil on canvas, 46.5 x 71 cm, private collection

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/brandt-czarniecki-th.jpg (http://hotimg16.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/brandt-czarniecki.jpg)
Jozef Brandt
"Czarniecki at the battle of Koldynga", 1870, oil on canvas, 95 x 205.5 cm, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/chelminski-napoleon-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/chelminski-napoleon.jpg)
Jan van Chelminski
"Napoleon Retreating from Moscow", oil on canvas, 70 x 120 cm (27.6 x 47.2 in), private collection

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/chelminski-odwrot-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/chelminski-odwrot.jpg)
Jan van Chelminski
"The Retreat from Moscow", oil on canvas, 65 x 81 cm, private collection

http://hotimg3.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/chelminski-retraite-th.jpg (http://hotimg3.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/chelminski-retraite.jpg)
Jan van Chelminski
"Retreat from Moscow, Russia, October 1812 (La Retraite de Moscou, Russie, Octobre 1812)", oil on canvas, private collection

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-modlitwa-th.jpg (http://hotimg5.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-modlitwa.jpg)
Jozef Chelmonski
"Army at Prayer Before the Battle of Raclawice", 1906, oil on canvas, 172 x 244 cm, National Museum, Wroclaw

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-cossack-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-cossack.jpg)
Jozef Chelmonski
"Cossack", 1882, oil on canvas, 25.7 x 16.5 cm, National Museum, Cracow

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-epizod-th.jpg (http://hotimg16.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-epizod.jpg)
Jozef Chelmonski
"Episode of the 1863 Insurrection", 1884-85, oil on canvas, 45 x 81 cm, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-kozacy-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-kozacy.jpg)
Jozef Chelmonski
"Marching Cossacks", 1881, oil on canvas, 70 x 175 cm, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-pulaski-th.jpg (http://hotimg5.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-pulaski.jpg)
Jozef Chelmonski
"Pulaski at Czestochowa", 1875, oil on canvas, 87 x 144 cm, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-kosynier-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/chelmonski-kosynier.jpg)
Jozef Chelmonski
"The Scythe-Man", 1906, oil on canvas, 87.1 x 67.3 cm, private collection

http://hotimg3.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/franic-polski-th.jpg (http://hotimg3.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/franic-polski.jpg)
Felix Franić
"Polish Uhlan", oil on panel, 23 x 15.5 cm, private collection

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/gierymski-maksymilian-polish-th.jpg (http://hotimg16.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/gierymski-maksymilian-polish.jpg)
Maksymilian Gierymski
"Polish Patrol in 1830", 1869, oil on canvas, 48.5 x 80 cm, private collection

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/grottger-rekonesans-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/grottger-rekonesans.jpg)
Artur Grottger
"Reconnaissance", 1862, oil on canvas, 39.5 x 49.7 cm, Lviv Art Gallery, Lviv, Ukraine

http://hotimg8.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kaczor-bitwa-th.jpg (http://hotimg8.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kaczor-bitwa.jpg)
Stanislaw Kaczor-Batowski
"Battle of Zadworze", 1929, Polish Army Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kaczor-batowski-szarza-husarii-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kaczor-batowski-szarza-husarii.jpg)
Stanislaw Kaczor-Batowski
"The Charge of the Polish Hussars", 1924, oil on canvas, 56 x 62.5 cm, private collection

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/ssak-wojciech-after-the-battle-th.jpg (http://hotimg14.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/ssak-wojciech-after-the-battle.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"After the Battle of Zielence", 1898, oil on canvas, 70 x 140 cm, private collection

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-stoczek-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-stoczek.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"The Battle at Stoczek, Warsaw", 1926, oil on canvas, 81 x 144 cm (31.9 x 56.7 in), private collection

http://hotimg2.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-bitwa-th.jpg (http://hotimg2.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-bitwa.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"Battle of Raszyn", 1913, 189.5 x 398 cm, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg8.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-pod-th.jpg (http://hotimg8.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-pod.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"Battle of the Pyramids", 1896, oil sketch, 70.5 x 105 cm, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/ak-wojciech-zwiad-kawaleryjski-th.jpg (http://hotimg5.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/ak-wojciech-zwiad-kawaleryjski.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"Cavalry Patrol", 1928, oil on plywood, 38 x 47.5 cm, private collection

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-charge-th.jpg (http://hotimg16.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-charge.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"Charge of the Winged Hussars at the Battle of Kircholm", 1925, oil on canvas, 40 x 80 cm, private collection

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-epizod-th.jpg (http://hotimg15.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-epizod.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"Episode of 1812", 1900, oil on panel, 46 x 36.5 cm, private collection

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/20Kossak-Eskortowanie-20jencow-th.jpg (http://hotimg14.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/20Kossak-Eskortowanie-20jencow.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"Escorting Prisoners of War", 1915, oil on panel, 54 x 45.7 cm, private collection

http://hotimg8.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-messenger-th.jpg (http://hotimg8.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-messenger.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"Messenger", 1897, oil on panel, 50 x 39.5 cm, private collection

http://hotimg2.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-rapsodia-th.jpg (http://hotimg2.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-rapsodia.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"Military Rhapsody", 1935, oil on canvas, 200 x 400 cm, private collection

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-trumpeter-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-wojciech-trumpeter.jpg)
Wojciech Kossak
"Trumpeter", 1925, oil on canvas, 120 x 100 cm, private collection

http://hotimg2.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-bitwa-th.jpg (http://hotimg2.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-bitwa.jpg)
Juliusz Kossak
"Battle of Ignacewo", 1865, Historical Museum of Warsaw

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-potyczka-th.jpg (http://hotimg15.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-potyczka.jpg)
Juliusz Kossak
"Encounter", watercolour, 24.5 x 32 cm, National Museum, Cracow

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-juliusz-biwak-noca-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-juliusz-biwak-noca.jpg)
Juliusz Kossak
"Insurgents' Camp at Night", watercolour on cardboard, 31 x 45.3 cm, private collection

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-juliusz-loyal-th.jpg (http://hotimg15.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-juliusz-loyal.jpg)
Juliusz Kossak
"The Loyal Companion", 1871, oil on canvas, 48.5 x 63.5 cm, Lviv Art Gallery, Lviv, Ukraine

http://hotimg2.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-bitwa-th.jpg (http://hotimg2.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-bitwa.jpg)
Jerzy Kossak
"Battle of Somosierra, 30 November 1808", oil on panel, 46 x 54 cm, private collection

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-charge-th.jpg (http://hotimg5.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-charge.jpg)
Jerzy Kossak
"The Charge", 1924, oil on canvas, 96 x 142 cm (37.8 x 55.9 in), private collection

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-charge-of-th.jpg (http://hotimg15.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-charge-of.jpg)
Jerzy Kossak
"Charge of the Polish Light Horse at Somosierra", 1945, oil on canvas, 72.5 x 100 cm, private collection

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-zwiad-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-zwiad.jpg)
Jerzy Kossak
"Patrol on Horseback", 1936, oil on plywood, 41.5 x 29.5 cm, private collection

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-spod-th.jpg (http://hotimg5.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-spod.jpg)
Jerzy Kossak
"The Retreat from Moscow", 1932, oil on plywood, 50 x 88 cm, private collection

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-zolnierz-th.jpg (http://hotimg15.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-zolnierz.jpg)
Jerzy Kossak
"Soldier and Girl", 1926, oil on cardboard, 38 x 46 cm, private collection

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-soldaten-th.jpg (http://hotimg16.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-soldaten.jpg)
Jerzy Kossak
"Soldiers Resting (Soldaten bei der Rast)", 1935, oil on panel, 71 x 99.5 cm (28 x 39.2 in), private collection

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-dressing-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-dressing.jpg)
Jerzy Kossak
"Uhlan Dressing a Horse", 1918, oil on cardboard, 46.5 x 37.5 cm, private collection

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-meal-th.jpg (http://hotimg5.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-meal.jpg)
Jerzy Kossak
"Uhlan's Meal", 1919, oil on plywood, 50 x 39.5 cm, private collection

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-pogon-th.jpg (http://hotimg14.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/kossak-jerzy-pogon.jpg)
Jerzy Kossak
"Uhlans in Pursuit", oil on canvas, 59.5 x 109 cm, private collection

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/lukaszewicz-piotr-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/lukaszewicz-piotr.jpg)
Jozefat Ignacy Lukaszewicz
"Count Piotr Szembek", 1832, oil on canvas, 77.5 x 62.5 cm, private collection

http://hotimg8.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/malecki-forward-th.jpg (http://hotimg8.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/malecki-forward.jpg)
Wladyslaw Aleksander Malecki
"Forward Patrol", 1876, oil on canvas, 26 x 40 cm (10.2 x 15.7 in), private collection

http://hotimg2.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/matejko-grunwald-th.jpg (http://hotimg2.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/matejko-grunwald.jpg)
Jan Matejko
"The Battle of Grunwald", 1878, oil on canvas, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/matejko-bohdan-th.jpg (http://hotimg15.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/matejko-bohdan.jpg)
Jan Matejko
"Bohdan Chmielnicki and Tuhaj-Bej at Lviv", 1885, oil on panel, 130 x 79 cm, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/matejko-kosciuszko-th.jpg (http://hotimg16.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/matejko-kosciuszko.jpg)
Jan Matejko
"Kosciuszko at the Battle of Raclawice", sketch, 1885, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/matejko-raclawice-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/matejko-raclawice.jpg)
Jan Matejko
"Kosciuszko at the Battle of Raclawice", 1888, oil on canvas, National Museum, Cracow

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/matejko-dziewica-th.jpg (http://hotimg16.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/matejko-dziewica.jpg)
Jan Matejko
"Virgin of Orleans", sketch, 1883, National Museum, Cracow

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/michalowski-potyczka-th.jpg (http://hotimg14.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/michalowski-potyczka.jpg)
Piotr Michalowski
"The Battle betwen Polish hussars and Austrian infantry", oil on canvas, 63 x 49 cm, private collection

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/michalowski-somosierra-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/michalowski-somosierra.jpg)
Piotr Michalowski
"Battle of Somosierra", c. 1837, oil on canvas, National Museum, Cracow

http://hotimg3.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/pawliszak-cossacks-th.jpg (http://hotimg3.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/pawliszak-cossacks.jpg)
Waclaw Pawliszak
"Cossacks Gift", oil on canvas, 124 x 213 cm, private collection

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/piasecki-polish-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/piasecki-polish.jpg)
Leszek Piasecki
"Polish Dragoons", oil on canvas, 80 x 60 cm, private collection

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/pillati-smierc-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/pillati-smierc.jpg)
Henryk Pillati
"Death of Berek Joselewicz in Kock", 1867, oil on canvas, 67 x 80 cm, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg8.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/poraj-army-th.jpg (http://hotimg8.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/poraj-army.jpg)
Stanislaw Poraj Fabijanski
"Army Officers Riding Through the Snow", 1890, oil on panel, 26.7 x 41.2 cm (10.5 x 16.2 in), private collection

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/ruszkowski-witold-insurrection-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/ruszkowski-witold-insurrection.jpg)
Witold Pruszkowski
"Insurrection Scene", National Museum, Cracow

http://hotimg5.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/rozwadowski-adiutant-th.jpg (http://hotimg5.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/rozwadowski-adiutant.jpg)
Zygmunt Rozwadowski
"Adjutant", 1893, oil on canvas, 50.5 x 80.5 cm, private collection

http://hotimg3.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/rozwadowski-napoleon-th.jpg (http://hotimg3.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/rozwadowski-napoleon.jpg)
Zygmunt Rozwadowski
"Napoleon's Soldier", 1909, oil on cardboard, 27 x 37 cm, private collection

http://hotimg3.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/owski-Zolnierze-20na-20saniach-th.jpg (http://hotimg3.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/owski-Zolnierze-20na-20saniach.jpg)
Tadeusz Rybkowski
"Two Soldiers on a Sled", 1877, oil on panel, 11 x 16,5 cm, private collection
Two Soldiers on a Sled

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/styka-jan-officers-th.jpg (http://hotimg14.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/styka-jan-officers.jpg)
Jan Styka
"Officers on Horseback", 1898, oil on canvas, 147.4 x 143.2 cm, private collection

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/suchodolski-kircholmem-th.jpg (http://hotimg16.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/suchodolski-kircholmem.jpg)
January Suchodolski
"The Battle of Kircholm", 1858, oil on canvas, 120 x 160 cm, private collection

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/uchodolski-odpoczywajacy-ulani-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/uchodolski-odpoczywajacy-ulani.jpg)
January Suchodolski
"Resting Uhlans", 1852, oil on canvas, 52 x 40 cm, private collection

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/Szerner-20-Do-20ataku-th.jpg (http://hotimg14.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/Szerner-20-Do-20ataku.jpg)
Wladyslaw Karol Szerner
"Attack", oil on canvas, 50.5 x 40 cm, private collection

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/szerner-wladyslaw-wartownik-th.jpg (http://hotimg6.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/szerner-wladyslaw-wartownik.jpg)
Wladyslaw Szerner
"Sentinel", oil on canvas, 41.25 x 32.5 cm, Polish Museum of America, Chicago, IL

http://hotimg8.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/trzeszczkowski-natarcie-th.jpg (http://hotimg8.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/trzeszczkowski-natarcie.jpg)
Antoni Trzeszczkowski
"The Charge of the Polish Hussars", watercolour on cardboard, 52 x 69 cm, private collection

http://hotimg15.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/orsza-bitwa-fragment-th.jpg (http://hotimg15.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/orsza-bitwa-fragment.jpg)
Unknown Painter
"The Battle of Orsza", detail, Master of the Battle of Orsza, after 1524-30, oil on panel, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg12.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/orsza-bitwa-th.jpg (http://hotimg12.fotki.com/p/a/99_234/51_136/orsza-bitwa.jpg)
Unknown Painter
"The Battle of Orsza", Master of the Battle of Orsza, after 1524-30, oil on panel, National Museum, Warsaw

http://hotimg3.fotki.com/b/99_234/51_136/wisznicki-szarza-th.jpg (http://hotimg3.fotki.com/p/b/99_234/51_136/wisznicki-szarza.jpg)
Mikolaj Wisznicki
"Charge at Wolodarka", 1935, Polish Army Museum, Warsaw

[Mishka Zubov]

Canadians in Afghanistan are having second thoughts whether giving C-7s to ANA was the right move.
The Ottawa Citizen's defence reporter David Pugliese examines the options here:
http://communities.canada.com/ottawacitizen/blogs/defencewatch/archive/2008/01/03/is-giving-c-7s-to-the-afghan-national-army-the-right-move.aspx

Indeed, the topic of what arms to provide the ANA and ANP came up when I met with some senior officers in Afghanistan last year....

But Polish Army Lt.-Gen. Mieczyslaw Bieniek, the NATO senior advisor to Afghan Defense Minister Abdul Rahim Wardak, seemed to indicate that for small arms the AK and its variants would be around a long time. In fact, Bieniek was pushing for a NATO role in co-ordinating the donations of such surplus weaponry, particularly ammunition.

“The equipment they possess here is mainly Russian-made or eastern-made,” he told me. “They have thousands of Kalashnikovs. So what do they need quickly? Bullets. Who has those bullets? Former Eastern-Bloc countries which are now in NATO. For example, in Poland we changed our caliber to NATO standards. But we’ve still got billions of (Kalashnikov) ammunition rounds so we can send those stocks here. Someone must co-ordinate that effort.”LT-GEN Bieniek and his colleagues in NATO headquarters and in Kabul do not instill much of confidence in me, since they seem to me as bunch of bureaucrats. But they might be right here and this is not what they say, or how they operate, but because this is somehow confirmed by Polish OMLT soldiers.

I remember them saying that, notwithstanding bravery and partisan experience of their ANA fighters, they have no appreciation that their weapons - both small and large - must be properly maintained and cleaned from time to time. The urban legend has it that Kalashnikov rifles will always work even if be abused. Polish OMLT soldiers saw many of the ANA AK47 jamming - and only by demonstrating to the ANA soldiers that this is avoidable by reasonable maintenance they were able to move to the next steps - like teaching them how to make small field repairs, etc.

Afghan officers say they are eager to make the switch to the C-7 because of the poor condition of their existing AK-47s (ANA officers say the AKs jam frequently). It also makes sense from the point of view of interoperability; the same supply chain can now provide ammunition and parts to both ANA and Canadian Forces units.Of course they are eager to get hold of any technological gadget they can get - from Americans, from Canadians, etc.

but

M-16/C-7 family, will prove to be a major headache in the long run. They make the point that the C-7 is an excellent weapon but needs a well-trained soldier to maintain it properly (the suggestion being that ANA troops might not fall into that category just yet).Here you go!

[Mishka Zubov]

Posted by somebody named Mark.

Driving Cross Country During a Mission in Afghanistan
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&videoid=24695884
Description: I am in my HMMWV driving with the Polish Army and the Afghan Army on a mission in early December 2007.

You have to trust the description, you cannot see the flag. :-)
How good of Mark not to pollute those videos with some damm music.

Other related videos by the same poster "Mark" (They do not mention Polish soldiers though), but they are interesting nevertheless.

http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=24697421
Description: We were on a mission with the Afghan Army. Our lead element detected this bomb and blew it up before any vehicle rolled over it. We were stopped and waitiing for this to occur.

Moon Dust in Afghanistan
http://vids.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=vids.individual&VideoID=24641459
Description: This is me walking through what we call 'moon dust'. It is extremely fine sand that feels like baby powder and gets into everything.

This looks to me like the Kushamond base - MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

USA LT-GEN Karl Eikenberry in Warsaw
by Jakub Czermiński
Monday, January 7, 2008

Invited by GEN Franciszek Gągor - chief of Genaral Staff of Polish Armed Forces, USA LT-GEN Karl Eikenberry came with visit to Warsaw. He is a deputy chief of NATO's Military Committee. During the meeting on January 7 both generals discussed current allied operations, transformational directions of NATO and development plans for Polish Armed Forces. After the meeting LT-GEN gave an exclusive interview to "Redakcja Wojskowa".

He stated that NATO transformation process must continue to fit the coalition into changing strategic conditions. NATO should improve its procedures and increase its operational capacity to be ready for rapid deployment of its armed forces when a need arises. The goal of the Alliance is not only its adjustment to the current missions but also an anticipation of future challenges.

GEN Eikenberry described the input of Polish Armed Forces to NATO as impressive. According to the general - Poland provides an excellent example to other allied countries. He stressed that he had an opportunity to watch Polish soldiers in Afghanistan and he remembers them as tough, disciplined and excellently led. He added that Poland's participation in the missions abroad is not only limited to Afghanistan and that our presence in Kosovo and Bosnia and Hertzegovina is being equally appreciated. General Eikenberry also mentioned the development of Polish Armed Forces during past 18 years and stressed that Poland has walked the long road and that it is still walking on the reform path.

According to him, the most important goals for MC NATO in 2008 are: increase of independency of the ISAF commander in Afghanistan and handling the security in Kosovo. In addition, the Military Committee will be working on a plan for the better use of NATO Response Force and it will be forming analyses for new solutions for NATO. The Military Committee will be suggesting changes in the NATO command structure.
From a diary of a top Army officer
[Take it easy - it's all for well meant fun, nothing insidious - MZ :-)]

Today I had a visit of the deputy chief of NATO's Military Committee. Karl is a good guy, educated in several military academies, with a lot experience as a top commanding officer.

He handed me a nice toy this morning. I heartily thanked him for it - as you can see in the photo #1 below. I'd love to play with it sometime but I am afraid that my old lady would not let me do so; she would like to keep it - as usually - all to herself on her mantelpiece.

Not to be outdone I handed him a nice Polish eagle in a box. But Karl just could not wait till the next Christmas, so I had to open the box for him right then. [Photo 2]

But he said that he liked his American eagle better, so we traded the gifts and we solemnly swore to never do it again. Just to make sure we signed on it in this thick book - a bit too big for this little night table from Cepelia. Or was it IKEA? Fortunately my personal adjutant was making sure that the book would not slip down. But Karl was later complaining that there was not enough leg room for him under that table. [Photo 3]

I must admit that - with regards to spending - our army has been caught between the penalizing rock of our republic's justice and the hard place of our basic needs. Anticipating Karl's visit I was about to buy a good, old fashioned, imperial desk where I could sit down to serious business with him - or other VIPs for that matter. But my advisers told me to watch my expenses, otherwise the Military Police would take my Visa card away. So Karl and I just knocked together these two standard issue, false mahogany desks, taken away from some middle managers of our IT department, and here we are - happily chatting with Karl. [Photo 4]

We might have as well sat down together at my coffee table, but there is not enough space for two coffee thermoses, chips, mineral water, cups an saucers, cream jug, flowers and the flags. So as you see - two desks solution is a better choice than a coffee table. I do not have to mention that those things on the table are for photo op only - the cups are empty and there is no coffee in the thermoses. But don't worry - Karl and I will later have some chips and cold Coca-Cola in our barracks' canteen.
http://img158.imageshack.us/img158/1636/zdjecie126014378pj5.jpg
Photo 1

http://img260.imageshack.us/img260/8296/zdjecie126014380ak1.jpg
Photo 2

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/3255/zdjecie126014379lp1.jpg
Photo 3

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/7571/zdjecie126014377mb9.jpg
Photo 4

[Mishka Zubov]

Soldiers in the camera view
by Krzysztof Wilewski
2008-01-07

Two TVP reporters have been embedded with Polish Military Contingent in Afghanistan (PMC-A) for the last three weeks - documenting the soldiers' daily work 24 hours a day.

On April 18, 2007 an agreement was signed between "Telewizja Polska" (TVP) and Ministry of National Defense. According to it the Polish population should be informed of "this real and dangerous activity of Polish Armed Forces" on their missions abroad.

In the middle of December two TVP reporters - columnist Jarosław Lewandowski and camera operator Przemysław Wiśniewski - joined PMC-A on the basis of that agreement. They will be accompanying the soldiers in their daily work. Until now they have had a chance to watch a shooting exercise, participate in a humanitarian aid to children at the Charikar orphanage and accompany the soldiers at their Christmas table.

http://hotimg14.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/zdjecie_489_4293.jpg

http://hotimg16.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/zdjecie_489_4294.jpg

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/zdjecie_489_4295.jpg

source: http://www.do.wp.mil.pl/aktualnosc.php?idaktualnosc=597
translated by MZ

Big deal! Why am I so skeptical? Is it because the only pictures I see are those of the reporters? Or because they cozy up around the Bagram headquarters?

[lightfire]

I wonder Misha Zubov, why do you not have an official status/title of "rapid translator"? There's a bunch of extraordinarry info you provide, few could compare it with anything on the mp.net. Respect man.

[Mishka Zubov]

Thanks for your appreciation, lightfire. I will have to patiently wait for the nomination I guess. :-)

[Mishka Zubov]

Fearsome wolverines, crabs and lobsters
by ZBIGNIEW LENTOWICZ
Monday, January 07 2008

Reprinted from Rzeczpospolita, 7.1.2008, Groźne rosomaki, kraby i langusty

More than half out of four billions PLN, set aside for technical modernization of the armed forces, will be spent in 2008 for the equipment manufactured in the Polish plants - including several true technological hits, which could be the envy of the world manufacturers of modern weaponry.

Rosomak - wolverine - is undoubtedly one of the Polish weaponry hits. But there is a little trouble with it. It is manufactured in "Wojskowe Zakłady Mechaniczne" (WZM) (Military Mechanical Plant) in Siemianowice but I has been invented by Finns and this is the Finnish Patria that delivers most of its components to our domestic manufacturer, imported in turn from other renowned suppliers.

Its combat turret is supplied by Italian Oto Melara. - Nevertheless, Rosomak is our product, designed to Polish specifications, assembled at home and more and more equipped with our domestic components - says Andrzej Kiński, an expert on armored weaponry and a chief of the magazine „Nowa Technika Wojskowa“ (New Military Technology). There is a globalization trend in the world's defense industry: the most complex and most modern weapons systems are produced by few major companies, using elements bought all over the world from specialized external sub-suppliers.

Current WZM production problems aside - Rosomak deserves to be rightfully called a hit due to Patria's export successes and virtues of the vehicle, which have been confirmed at war in Afghanistan. So far nobody died during at least four direct attacks on Rosomaks with Polish crews.

[see also: http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2963024&postcount=889] (http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2963024&postcount=889%5D)

Polish eyes of NATO

Half a century of achievements of Polish radiolocation industry and talents of the designers from Warsaw's "Przemysłowy Instytut Telekomunikacji" (PIT) (Industrial Telecommunication Institute) decided that NATO has chosen PIT's radars N12 M for tracking the eastern borders of the Alliance. Mounted on towers - three long distance radars have been integrated with the entire NATO system of its airspace control. The experts say that a true hit is a sophisticated data processing. Our programmers have shown their class here. The radars let the NATO commanders see exactly what happens in the airspace, several hundreds kilometers away from the radiolocation posts.

A soldier using an individual night vision device (NVD) MU-3, from the Warsaw's "Przemysłowe Centrum Optyki" (PCT) (Industrial Optical Center), can see in almost complete darkness several hundreds meters away. Light amplifiers used in this NVD and the technology of their usage are unique - achieved only by few world manufacturers of similar equipment. Our soldiers in Afghanistan use the mini NVDs, which could also be used as rifle aims. Only American elite commando force have the equipment comparable with such capabilities.

An accurate shot in a fraction of a second

Our army is entering into a new dimension of the net-centric command systems based on Internet - used for data collection, analysis and transfer. This is due to Topaz - artillery fire monitoring and control system, from the private company "WB Electronics" at Ożarów, and the newest radiolocators from Radwar.

For example, the modernized middle range radar "Nur 22" (Loon 22), which sees 100 kilometers away, is capable of simultaneous tracking and space positioning of several tens of targets, and also effectively detecting intruders flying just above the ground. The Radwar's kit proposes fire control systems "Blenda", which instantaneously analyze information about enemy's aircrafts, provide data for artillery batteries and allow their commanders to give the fire orders in just few seconds.

"Centrum Techniki Morskiej" (CTM) (Maritime Technology Center) in Gdynia, working in big secrecy, recently submitted a proposal of a "super sensitive protection system of naval bases" to NATO. Designed in CMT a sonar and electromagnetic barrier "Kryl" currently protects Polish Navy base in Gdynia. It is capable of detecting even a single diver within its monitored underwater space.

Definitely another hit will be an anti-torpedo protection system for submarines and surface warships, currently under testing. This system not only detects a threat but it also effectively sets traps on the path of the enemy's missile.


Forty barrels from HSW

Negotiations with MoD for the first serial production, self-propelled gun-howitzer "Krab" (Crab) from Stalowa Wola are still under way, but everything indicates that the army already appreciates the fire power and accuracy of the system that sends a 155 mm missile 40 kilometers away and hits a target with extreme precision of a dozen meters.

Another of its product, a 40-barrel "Langusta" (Lobster) is currently being tested at the proving grounds. Other Polish companies have been cooperating with the HSW engineers in its design. Jelcz has designed a heavy vehicle with off-roads chassis and armored, air-conditioned cabin. Radmor from Gdańsk provides radio-stations, while the internal communication system "Fonet" and the fire control "Topaz" is being integrated by WB Electronics.

- The computer controlled system analyses wind, temperature, pressure and data from radar and air reconnaissance - necessary for a precise shot - explains WBE chairman Piotr Wojciechowski. The new Polish launcher is also adapted to 122 mm rocket missiles "Feniks", from "Fabryka Produkcji Specjalnej" (FBS) (Special Weaponry Factory) in Bolechów.

Thanks to cooperation with French experts on rocket engines from CELERG (today Roxel) the FSB is able to build rockets reaching targets 42 kilometers away.
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10888&Itemid=46
Translated by MZ

[Jag_är_ inte_svenska]

What kinda activities or battles have the GROM been involved in since the invasion? Are they currently in Iraq? And whats the current mandate for troops in Iraq? Are they permitted to engage in combat missions or are they still doing humanitarian/training? Also how many troops does the Polish army have in missions abroad? I know 900 in Iraq and soon to be 1600 in Afghanistan but how many in Kosovo or to be sent to CHAD.

[Mishka Zubov]

^^^
What kinda activities or battles have the GROM been involved in since the invasion? Are they currently in Iraq?

Those who know don't tell. And I am not the one with such knowledge. Sparse hints here and there indicate that they are still in Kandahar. Some GROM operators have been recently assigned to VIP protection in Iraq and presumably in Afghanistan to replace BOR. Again - read back this thread.

And whats the current mandate for troops in Iraq? Are they permitted to engage in combat missions or are they still doing humanitarian/training?

They have been permitted to do combat for the last several months and significant success can be seen as a result (as well as American "surge") - just scan this thread. But Poland is withdrawing from Iraq, presumably by October this year. First elements of the last, 10th rotation have been sent over there last weekend. One of their roles will be the logistics tasks for preparation of equipment transport back to Poland. Again - some details have been posted few messages back in this thread. Tasks will be gradually reduced until the 8th Iraqi Division, police and local authorities are ready to take over the responsibilities. Some skeletal training force might be still left after the withdrawal of the main force. Many question marks: what about Armenians, etc.?

Also how many troops does the Polish army have in missions abroad? I know 900 in Iraq and soon to be 1600 in Afghanistan but how many in Kosovo or to be sent to CHAD.

1. EUFOR, EU mission to Bosnia and Hertzegovina - 7th PMC rotation, 205 soldiers and 3 civilians, commander LT-COL Grzegorz PAROL. One maneuver company in Base BUTMIR in Sarajevo, two observation-liaison teams in Lukavec and Teslic. Altogether 205 soldiers and 3 civilians.

2. UNDOF, Syria - 28th PMC rotation, commander LT-COL Jerzy SULIMA. One operational battalion POLBATT, including headquarters – about 360 soldiers and civilians.

3. UNIFIL, Lebanon - ? PMC rotation, commander LT-COL dipl Maciej KłóTKA. One logistic battalion POLLOG and one maneuver company. 500 soldiers and civilians.

4. KFOR, Kosovo - 16th PMC rotation
Since the beginning of the mission the PMC KFOR has been changing several times its structure and geographical location depending on political-military situation in Kosovo and restructuring of KFOR. Since August 2006 the contingent is stationed in Camp BONDSTEEL (with Americans and Greeks). One maneuver battalion POLUKRBAT comprises Polish, Ukrainian and Lithuanian (as part of Polish FOX company) soldiers. The battalion is commanded by a Pole, a deputy commander is a Ukrainian. Some Polish soldiers (Military Police) serve also in KFOR HQ in Pristina.

Cannot find current data. Data from November 2006 - 255. Some papers say 300 now - which probably includes MP.

5. MND SE, Iraq - 9th/10th rotation. Commander MAJ-GEN Tadeusz Buk. Camp Echo Diwaniyah, Al Kut. Altogether 900 soldiers.

6. ISAF, Afghanistan - 2nd rotation. Commander BRIG-GEN Jerzy Biziewski. 1200 soldiers in Bagram, Gardez, Ghazni, Sharana, Koshamand, Wazi-Khwa, Kandahar. Will be increased to 1600.

7. CHAD - 350-400 soldiers, including about 110 Military Police. take a look at several messages in this thread.

200 - EUFOR
360 - UNDOF
500 - UNIFIL
300 - KFOR ****
900 - MND SE (Iraq)
1200 - 1600 - ISAF (Afghanistan)
400 - CHAD
====
3860 - 4260

During the last 30 years or so about 40-50 thousands Polish soldiers have served in peace missions abroad.

[Mishka Zubov]

US Department of Defense - Photo Essay: Polish Coalition Partners

http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/1720/hires071230a3058m001fp9.jpg
A Polish army unit conducts a convoy brief before heading out on a mission from Camp Echo, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2007. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alan Mooshires (http://www.defenselink.mil/dodcmsshare/photoessay/2008-01/hires_071230-A-3058M-001.jpg)

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/9038/hires071230a3058m002fw3.jpg
A Polish army soldier listens to a convoy brief on Camp Echo, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2007, prior to a mission in Diwaniyah, Iraq. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alan Mooshires (http://www.defenselink.mil/dodcmsshare/photoessay/2008-01/hires_071230-A-3058M-002.jpg)

http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/1667/hires071230a3058m004bk1.jpg
Polish army soldiers walk into a power supply building during a convoy mission in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2007. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alan Mooshires (http://www.defenselink.mil/dodcmsshare/photoessay/2008-01/hires_071230-A-3058M-004.jpg)

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/5277/hires071230a3058m005uh3.jpg
A Polish army soldier stands in front of a power hub unit during a convoy mission in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2007. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alan Mooshires (http://www.defenselink.mil/dodcmsshare/photoessay/2008-01/hires_071230-A-3058M-005.jpg)

http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/2600/hires071230a3058m006po9.jpg
Polish army soldiers and an Iraqi contractor discuss business about a power supply unit during a convoy mission in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2007. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alan Mooshires (http://www.defenselink.mil/dodcmsshare/photoessay/2008-01/hires_071230-A-3058M-006.jpg)

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/7712/hires071230a3058m007by9.jpg
Polish army soldiers and an Iraqi contractor discuss business about a power supply unit during a convoy mission in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2007. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alan Mooshires (http://www.defenselink.mil/dodcmsshare/photoessay/2008-01/hires_071230-A-3058M-007.jpg)

http://img127.imageshack.us/img127/2104/hires071230a3058m008lp5.jpg
Polish army soldiers and an Iraqi contractor discuss business about a power supply unit during a convoy mission in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2007. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alan Mooshires (http://www.defenselink.mil/dodcmsshare/photoessay/2008-01/hires_071230-A-3058M-008.jpg)

http://img127.imageshack.us/img127/8850/hires071230a3058m009uw9.jpg
A Polish army soldier walks to a humvee after visiting a power supply building during a convoy mission in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2007. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alan Mooshires (http://www.defenselink.mil/dodcmsshare/photoessay/2008-01/hires_071230-A-3058M-009.jpg)

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/8425/hires071230a3058m013tf2.jpg
An Iraqi walks down the street in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2007. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alan Mooshires (http://www.defenselink.mil/dodcmsshare/photoessay/2008-01/hires_071230-A-3058M-013.jpg)

http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/1358/hires071230a3058m016yr5.jpg
A Polish army soldier surveys the landscape during a convoy mission in Diwaniyah, Iraq, Dec. 30, 2007. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Alan Mooshires (http://www.defenselink.mil/dodcmsshare/photoessay/2008-01/hires_071230-A-3058M-016.jpg)

[Jag_är_ inte_svenska]

^^^
What kinda activities or battles have the GROM been involved in since the invasion? Are they currently in Iraq?

Those who know don't tell. And I am not the one with such knowledge. Sparse hints here and there indicate that they are still in Kandahar. Some GROM operators have been recently assigned to VIP protection in Iraq and presumably in Afghanistan to replace BOR. Again - read back this thread.

And whats the current mandate for troops in Iraq? Are they permitted to engage in combat missions or are they still doing humanitarian/training?

They have been permitted to do combat for the last several months and significant success can be seen as a result (as well as American "surge") - just scan this thread. But Poland is withdrawing from Iraq, presumably by October this year. First elements of the last, 10th rotation have been sent over there last weekend. One of their roles will be the logistics tasks for preparation of equipment transport back to Poland. Again - some details have been posted few messages back in this thread. Tasks will be gradually reduced until the 8th Iraqi Division, police and local authorities are ready to take over the responsibilities. Some skeletal training force might be still left after the withdrawal of the main force. Many question marks: what about Armenians, etc.?

Also how many troops does the Polish army have in missions abroad? I know 900 in Iraq and soon to be 1600 in Afghanistan but how many in Kosovo or to be sent to CHAD.

1. EUFOR, EU mission to Bosnia and Hertzegovina - 7th PMC rotation, 205 soldiers and 3 civilians, commander LT-COL Grzegorz PAROL. One maneuver company in Base BUTMIR in Sarajevo, two observation-liaison teams in Lukavec and Teslic. Altogether 205 soldiers and 3 civilians.

2. UNDOF, Syria - 28th PMC rotation, commander LT-COL Jerzy SULIMA. One operational battalion POLBATT, including headquarters – about 360 soldiers and civilians.

3. UNIFIL, Lebanon - ? PMC rotation, commander LT-COL dipl Maciej KłóTKA. One logistic battalion POLLOG and one maneuver company. 500 soldiers and civilians.

4. KFOR, Kosovo - 16th PMC rotation
Since the beginning of the mission the PMC KFOR has been changing several times its structure and geographical location depending on political-military situation in Kosovo and restructuring of KFOR. Since August 2006 the contingent is stationed in Camp BONDSTEEL (with Americans and Greeks). One maneuver battalion POLUKRBAT comprises Polish, Ukrainian and Lithuanian (as part of Polish FOX company) soldiers. The battalion is commanded by a Pole, a deputy commander is a Ukrainian. Some Polish soldiers (Military Police) serve also in KFOR HQ in Pristina.

Cannot find current data. Data from November 2006 - 255. Some papers say 300 now - which probably includes MP.

5. MND SE, Iraq - 9th/10th rotation. Commander MAJ-GEN Tadeusz Buk. Camp Echo Diwaniyah, Al Kut. Altogether 900 soldiers.

6. ISAF, Afghanistan - 2nd rotation. Commander BRIG-GEN Jerzy Biziewski. 1200 soldiers in Bagram, Gardez, Ghazni, Sharana, Koshamand, Wazi-Khwa, Kandahar. Will be increased to 1600.

7. CHAD - 350-400 soldiers, including about 110 Military Police. take a look at several messages in this thread.

200 - EUFOR
360 - UNDOF
500 - UNIFIL
300 - KFOR ****
900 - MND SE (Iraq)
1200 - 1600 - ISAF (Afghanistan)
400 - CHAD
====
3860 - 4260

During the last 30 years or so about 40-50 thousands Polish soldiers have served in peace missions abroad.


Thanks for that.. So around 4000 or so Polish troops will be deployed this year. That has to be a significant amount.

[signatory]

Short video from RBS-15 official delivery that I posted pics about some week ago.

Polish navy guys talk from 01:10...

http://webbtv.forsvarsmakten.se/playlist.aspx?mediaid=209

(Swedish/English language)

[Mishka Zubov]

Nice, thanks for posting it.

[Mishka Zubov]

Injured Afghan will be treated in Poland
by Krzysztof Wilewski
Tuesday, January 08 2008

http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/894/mashal1ae2.jpg

After long search a clinic in Poland was found that will take care of rehabilitation of an Afghan soldier, injured on October 31 as a result of a bomb attack on Polish-Afghan patrol. When he comes into Poland in middle of January he will be taken care by Disabled Persons Aid Foundation from Stróże, Małopolskie voivodship, managed by Senator Stanisław Kogut.

On October 31, an improvised explosive device (IED) exploded under the first vehicle of a joint Polish-Afghan patrol, about 10 kilometers from a small place Zormat in Paktia province, eastern Afghanistan. Seriously wounded were a Polish captain - 38 years old Artur R. from the 11th "Lubuska" Armored Cavalry Division, and a lieutenant of Afghan Army - 26 years old Mashal P.

Even though both soldiers have been taken care by our doctors only the Polish officer could count on rehabilitation of his leg. The Afghan officer, after going through several complicated surgeries in an American hospital, had to pay from his own pocket for the rehabilitation since he could not count on help from the Afghan health services.

This was a practical sentence to disability for life for the young lieutenant. For this reason the PMC-A command has undertaken a search for a Polish clinic which would take care of rehabilitation of Mashal. Weeks have been passing without any positive result. The break through came with a visit of actress Agnieszka Wagner to Bagram base, with a TV crew in tow, at the end of December last year.

Piotr Szarek, the program producer, suggested that he would come in touch with Disabled Persons Aid Foundation, managed by Senator Stanisław Kogut, and which might be willing to help Mashal. The response from Poland came the same day - a green light from the senator! Mashal can be treated in the Foundation - provided that the army will take care of transport of Mashal to Poland and then to Stróże where the clinic is located. According to the initial plans, Mashal will fly to Poland on January 10 - together with a Polish doctor who takes care of him, his brother and a translator.

http://img406.imageshack.us/img406/2835/mashaluw4.jpg

Established in 1998 by senator Stanisław Kogut the Disabled Persons Aid Foundation helps disabled persons, who need specialized treatment. Its most important goal is to create a motion-rehabilitation center in Stróże, community Grybów, Małopolskie voivodship. Currently the foundation operates with help of the Primary School in Stróże, where a rehabilitation-sport facility was built and computer laboratory was prepared for disabled persons. The rehabilitation of disabled persons takes also place at the facilities of the Sport Club "Kolejarz" (Railwayman) - a part of the Foundation - with an excellently equipped body building gym, a recreation sports field and a tennis court.

Photo: MAJ Mirosław Ochyra
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10917&Itemid=29
translated by MZ

Good for Mashal and I wish all the best to him. And good for the Polish PMC command in Afghanistan that has shown some compassion in pursuing this goal. Good for all those who have found some solution to this problem.

But I do not understand one thing: how come the young Afghan could not be treated in one of those top notch rehabilitation military facilities. There must be some in this 40 million people country. This only shows how bureaucratic that country is. I am not saying "has become" because Poland has always been bureaucratic for the last 60 years or so.

But when Poland was decisively poor under the communist rule the bureaucracy seemed sort of harmless since one had no means for doing anything anyway. But now, when there are some means, the bureaucracy sticks really out - it looks really ugly.

I poked around Internet to find something on Stróże. It's not that bad: the foundation seem quite active, they have build a 20 bed hospitium for children last year and there are some other healing (one might say - weirdo) facilities around, such as Hypotherapy Center. The foundation seems to be sponsored by Polish and international Caritas. It is obviously very Catholic, but I hope that this would not bother that much the young Afghan lieutenant.

He may even find some nice horse to ride in that Hypotherapy Center. And the Nowy Sącz - Gorlice area is beautiful so he may enjoy some country trips as well.

http://www.caritas.pl/media.php?id=1450

[Mishka Zubov]

Hunting training spaces in USA
by Piotr Laskowski
Tuesday, January 08 2008

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/4027/wizytamy3.jpg

A seven person delegation from the Air Force Command (AFC), headed by LT-GEN pilot Andrzej Błasik, a commander of Polish Air Force, is visiting Air Education and Training Command in USA between January 7 and 10. The aim of the visit is setting the training calendar for the future pilots of Hawks of the 3rd TAS in Krzesiny and 6th TAS in Łask, as well as for Hercules transport pilots of the 14th squadron in Powidz.

According to Marcin Siemiątkowski from press spokesman office of AFC - the most important thing will be to adjust the training dates to those offered by Americans. The visit will neither set the detailed number of pilots to be trained nor the payments for the schooling in USA, but its outcome must be such that there will be 1.5 pilots per one F16 or Hercules airplane - as decided earlier. Accordingly, the reconnaissance deals first of all with finding available training dates on T-38 Talon and transport airplanes in several US bases.

LT-COL pilot Cezary Wiśniewski, a commander of the 3rd TAS in Krzesiny, is a member of the delegation. He is there as an advisor of general Andrzej Błasik.

Photo: Piotr Laskowski
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10925&Itemid=49
translated by MZ

Somewhat related photos:

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/2113/071211f1253p032ag3.jpg
U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sergeant Rodrigo Gamba, the superintendent of the 182nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron of the Illinois Air National Guard, shows a flying schedule spreadsheet to visiting Polish air force maintenance officers in Peoria, Ill., D ec. 11, 2007. The Polish airmen are visiting the squadron to learn about managing the maintenance of five C-130E Hercules aircraft that are being delivered to the Polish air force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Todd Pendleton)http://img518.imageshack.us/img518/9440/071211f1253p039kv2.jpg
U.S. Air Force Maj. D.K. Carpenter, commander of the 182nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Illinois Air National Guard, explains a publication to visiting Polish air force maintenance officers in Peoria, Ill., Dec. 11, 2007. The Polish officers are visiting the 182nd Airlift Wing to learn about managing the maintenance of the five C-130E Hercules aircraft that will be delivered to the Polish air force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Todd Pendleton)

[Jag_är_ inte_svenska]

What does the Polish deployment look like? Do they have alot of infantry or medical/engineering companies? Are they close to setting up their own PRT?

[corran.pl]

What does the Polish deployment look like? Do they have alot of infantry or medical/engineering companies? Are they close to setting up their own PRT?

What deployment? Iraq? Afganistan?

[Jag_är_ inte_svenska]

What deployment? Iraq? Afganistan?

THE PMC-A but Iraq as well. Im interested in knowing

[corran.pl]

Well from what I remember:

The operational forces are in strength of battalion, divided into 3 operational groups (companies) alpha, bravo and Charlie, we also have national support group (or something like that) , some CIMIC group), battalion command, engineering unit (operating separately from the battle groups) and special forces detachment (also operating separately from the rest).


On the next turn the battalion will be strengthen with 8 helicopters (most likely used as QRF) 4 Mi-24WM and 4 Mi-8MTW-1.


There was some nice map with all detachments i Afghanistan somewhere on mp.net.


As for Iraq, I don't know the exact structures but now it should be made of CIMIC groups, instructors training Iraqis, small operational component for QRF duties, some helicopters but don't know how many of them is operational, and how many is waiting for transport back to Poland.

[Mishka Zubov]

U.S. Department of Defense
Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense (Public Affairs)
News Transcript

Presenter: U.S. Army, Deputy Commanding General for Operations, 82nd Airborne Division and Combined Joint Task Force-82 Brig. Gen. Joseph Votel
January 08, 2008

Excerpt:

The contributions of our NATO ISAF partners are significant. In addition to Provincial Reconstruction Teams from New Zealand and Turkey and soon from the Czech Republic, as well as medical resources from Egypt and the Republic of Korea, we are ably served by an 1,100- soldier strong contingent from Poland.

They occupy a vitally important portion of our area. The Polish battle group recently concluded a highly successful operation, partnering with the 2nd Brigade of the Afghan 203rd Army Corps and the National Police, planning and executing an operation that opened up an area which previously had limited opportunities for security, governance and development. As many of you have read in open source news, the Poles intend to increase their contribution and level of responsibility in Afghanistan, and this is greatly welcomed. source: http://www.defenselink.mil/transcripts/transcript.aspx?transcriptid=4117

[Mishka Zubov]

Second group of the 10th PMC-Iraq rotation
by Andrzej Pindor
Tuesday, January 08 2008

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/4875/goleniowirakrd7.jpg

On January 08 at 1920 hours the second group of Polish soldiers from the 10th rotation of Polish Military Contingent departed for Iraq by CASA 395 M airplane from Szczecin-Goleniów Airport. These are the soldiers from the 12th Mechanized Division from Szczecin.

They were bid farewell by commander of Land Forces LT-GEN Waldemar Skrzypczak, commander of the 12th Mechanized Division MAJ-GEN Andrzej Malinowski, deputy commander of chief of staff of Land Forces BRIG-GEN Grzegorz Duda and their friends and families.

In his short farewell speech General Skrzypczak stressed importance of Iraqi mission and extremely good preparation and experience of departing soldiers. He wished them happy return home and feeling of pride in significance of their tasks. He also thanked their families for their understanding and support.

All operations in Szczecin-Goleniów Airport were coordinated by commandant of Military Command of Szczecin Transport MAJ Krzysztof Wróblewski.

Photo: LT Andrzej Pindor
source: http://redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=362&Itemid=54
translated by MZ

This time the soldiers will stay in Iraq for 10 months, and their tasks will be dismantling of the Polish base and training of Iraqi army. They will take on their duties from the 9th rotation in the middle of February.

[marlowe]

Poland raises stakes for U.S. missile shield
Wed Jan 9, 2008 4:31am EST

By Gabriela Baczynska and Adam Jasser

WARSAW (Reuters) - Poland's new centre-right government will not agree to host a U.S. anti-missile site unless Washington commits to boosting Polish air defenses, Defense Minister Bogdan Klich told Reuters.

Klich said he would discuss Poland's demands, which also include a higher level of military cooperation, with Defense Secretary Robert Gates in Washington later this month.

"In Washington, I want to strongly emphasize the issues that are of interest to the Polish side," he said in an interview late on Tuesday.

"The first of these is the accompanying (air defense) package, without which, the Polish government's consent for the American installation is really difficult to imagine."

Klich travels to Washington to meet Gates on January 14-16.

The U.S. administration is seeking to deploy 10 rockets in Poland and a radar station in the Czech Republic as part of its global "missile shield" against long-range ballistic missiles.

U.S. officials say the shield will protect the United States and its allies from attack by what it calls "rogue" states such as Iran and North Korea, or an al Qaeda-type organization which could in the future seize a nuclear weapon.

The plan has met fierce resistance from Russia, which says the central European part of the shield would threaten its security and upset the balance of military power in Europe.

Warsaw's previous conservative government, which lost power in October, said such arguments showed Russia had not given up its imperial instincts towards central Europe.

Led by combative twins, President Lech Kaczynski and ex-prime minister Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the conservatives had refused to talk to Moscow on the issue, pushing relations between the two countries to new lows.

Klich said his government was keen to repair ties with Russia and would seek to convince Moscow it had nothing to fear.

He signaled, however, that occasional threats by Russian generals to take unspecified "steps" in response to the shield would not sway the Polish government.

"A dialogue with Russia is necessary to eliminate their subjective sense of threat (from the shield)," he said.

Asked if Russian protests could tip the balance when the final decision is made by Poland, Klich said:

"Personally, I can say the decision on the shield will be taken in Poland and its main criterion will be the national interest."

PATRIOTS

Klich said the new government of Prime Minister Donald Tusk would depart from the "done deal" approach of its predecessors in future talks on the shield with the U.S. allies.

He said the government wanted the United States to bolster Poland's outmoded air defense capabilities with short- and medium-range systems like the Patriot and THAAD rockets.

"The presence of a U.S. military installation in Poland undoubtedly makes Polish airspace more vulnerable," he said. "I'm speaking about this in categorical terms because... this is an essential part of Polish airspace security."

Warsaw was also seeking a greater U.S. commitment to come to Poland's aid as part of NATO's Article 5 multilateral defense clauses, he said.

"The key issue would be to include Poland in the U.S. defense system so that our American allies would have a much stronger motivation... to come to our aid, should, God forbid, a threat to our security arise," he said.

Klich said that during his Washington trip he would also hold talks with Democratic leaders in Congress to probe their commitment to the missile shield, taking into perspective a possible change of guard at the White House next year.

(Writing by Adam Jasser; Editing by Michael Winfrey)

http://www.reuters.com/article/newsOne/idUSL0826272520080109?sp=true

[Mishka Zubov]

Flight for health
by Krzysztof Wilewski
Wednesday, January 09 2008

Commander of Polish Military Contingent in Afghanistan BRIG-GEN Jerzy Biziewski bid personally farewell to 26 years old Afghan LT Mashal B., departing for rehabilitation to Poland. Mashal will be treated in Disabled Persons Aid Foundation in Stróże.

...

On January 9 Mashal and his brother departed to Poland, under care of PMC-A doctor LT-COL Jacek Witkowski. General Biziewski, who was bidding farewell to Mashal at Bagram Airport, stressed in his interview with TVP reporters that it would be helpful to create a military rehabilitation center in Poland, where Afghan soldiers could be treated.[1]

This initiative has been widely acclaimed among ANA soldiers because it shows that Poles not only care - together with them - for security of Afghanistan but that they also care for life and health of their comrades in arms, when such a need arises.

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/7259/afgancz1ky8.jpg

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/523/afgancz2if0.jpg

Photos: MAJ Mirosław Ochyra
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10980&Itemid=29
translated by MZ
Follow up:
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2970969&postcount=909

[1]I Agree, see my comments to the previous post on this subject. Such initiative would be (i) of immense propaganda value and (ii) it would remove a beggar odium from Polish Armed Forces.

[Mishka Zubov]

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/4053/mleczko375wr9.jpg (http://www.polityka.pl/_gAllery/85/45/85456/Mleczko_375.jpg)
The Most Illustrious Republic. The Most Ignorant RepublicThis is how, I think, cartoonist Andrzej Mleczko sees Polish Yang and Yin. :-)

For those uninformed: Pollarded willows are significant parts of scenery of Polish rivers flatlands and they have become symbols of nostalgia[1] for things that have passed away or are missed by emigrants. They invoke images of childhood, youth, boys making music on pipes made of willow bark, willow wattle fences, dykes built with help of willow shoots...

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/6961/charwillows8jy1.jpg http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/8804/charwillows3ww6.jpg

[1]There are of course other such symbols, such as the "Highlander, have not you missed your mountains?" song that is still sometimes sang after copious amount of vodka.

[Mishka Zubov]

First flights of the Puck squadron
2008-01-08

8.01. Gdynia.

On Tuesday, the 28th "Puck" Air Squadron commenced first flights this year. Crews of rescue helicopters and transport airplanes were polishing their skills. The training was secured by the 43rd Navy Air Base in Gdynia - Babie Doły.

On January 8 the 28th "Puck" Air Squadron commenced its first flights this year at the Oksywie Airport. They were carried according to newly introduced procedure "Flights Organization Regulations". The changes relate, first of all, to extension of range of duties of the Operational Pilot of Flights (POL). This is a person, chosen for a given period of flights, who makes decisions about their organization in a given day. He/she is also responsible for correct implementation of training in the air.

Other changes involve direct preparation of crews to flights. Currently the briefing is individual and the crew commander is responsible for it. Informations about air situation, weather data and flight details a provided by POL directly before the task - and not during the flights briefing, as it was before.

Crews of W-3 RM „Anakonda” rescue helicopters and An-28 TD transport airplanes participated in the exercise. First flights of SH-2G deck helicopters are scheduled on January the 10th.

The flights of the squadron are secured by specialized services of the 43rd Navy Air Base. The Airport Service Company (KOL) is responsible for maintenance of the landing strips, access roads and aircraft parking spaces. Air traffic controllers and experts from meteorological station of Military Airport (WPL) in Oksywie are on duty 24 hours a day. The flights are secured by military firefighters, medical service and technical emergency crews.

This year the 28th Air Squadron is scheduled to training twice a week. Individual crew missions will have been adjusted to weather conditions and their training needs.


http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/7227/zdjecie126614429rn3.jpg

http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/9356/zdjecie126614430ar3.jpg

http://img441.imageshack.us/img441/3631/zdjecie126614431qd7.jpg

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/3735/zdjecie126614432fi6.jpg

http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/2229/zdjecie126614433zw7.jpg

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/927/zdjecie126614434du2.jpg

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/9766/zdjecie126614435nb9.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/7805/zdjecie126614436vq3.jpg

High resolution photos (http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/galeria/1266)
source: http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/artykul/4000
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

The last muster before the departure to far away Iraq
by Ren
Wednesday, January 09 2008
Reprinted from 9.1.2008 Ostatnia zbiórka przed wylotem do dalekiego Iraku

Farewell to soldiers departing on the Iraq mission at the barracks at the Jacewska st. in Inowrocław

This is the third time in row that the soldiers from the 56th "Kujawski" Battle Helicopters Regiment depart on a mission to Iraq. 55 soldiers from Inowrocław will join the 10th rotation of Polish Military Contingent, including 9 helicopter pilots.

The official farewell of the soldiers took place at the unit barracks at Jacewska st. Among the 55 soldiers going abroad there are 9 helicopter pilots, while the rest are the technical personnel. - I would like to welcome you all back on Kujawy Land as the same team, half a year later, after you have completed your mission - said commander of the unit COL pilot Zbigniew Rakoczy.

This is the first time that women are part of the Inowrocław's team. WO Joanna Spychalska will be the third time on a mission abroad, but LT Diana Maziarek goes there the first time. - Most of our soldiers have already participated in previous missions so they know what to expect. But some of them are new - says major Dariusz Świech, a spokesman for the unit.

source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10972&Itemid=46
translated by MZ

The basic equipment of the regiment are battle helicopters Mi-24 and multitasking helicopters Mi-2.

[Mishka Zubov]

Navy press briefing 2008

On Wednesday, January 9, a press briefing for reporters will be conveyed at the War Port in Gdynia Oksywie. Polish Navy Commander Vice Admiral Andrzej KARWETA will present the major task facing the Navy in 2008. One of the subject of the meeting will be the presentation of the new rocket weaponry.

ORP „GROM” is the first Polish missile warship, where the modern weapons have been installed - the RBS 15 Mk II rocket assemblies of Swedish production. These are the rockets delivered to Polish Navy as an offset accompanying the agreement for the delivery of rockets of the newest generation Mk III, planned for the years 2009-2012. These rockets will be the basic weaponry of the modernized Orkan class warships: ORP „Orkan”, ORP „Piorun” and ORP „Grom”. More details in the MoD press communique from October 2006: http://www.wp.mil.pl/artykul_wiecej.php?idartykul=2321.
source: http://www.mw.mil.pl/index.php?vhost=www&akcja=news&id=18396&limes=
translated by MZ



Agreement for delivery of SAAB RBS 15 Mk3 for Polish Navy
2006-10-13

Following negotiations between MoD, Bumar and "Zakłady Metalowe" Mesko, an agreement was signed on October 16, 2006, in the presence of minister Radosław Sikorski, for delivery of 36 anti-warship rockets RBS 15 Mk3, manufactured by swedish company SAAB BOFORS DYNAMICS.

The agreement was signed by State Secretary Marek Zająkała and Manager of Supplies Department of Armed Forces BRIG-GEN Roman Polak - representing MoD, and chairman of PHZ Bumar Roman Baczyński and chairman of Zakłady Metalowe MESKO Piotr Mazurek - representing the suppliers.

***
According to the agreement, besides the rockets, technological equipment, logistic packet, design and exploitation documentation will be also delivered. Specialized training was also ensured.

In 2008 the tests of RBS 15 Mk3 are scheduled, where the blast off will occur and accuracy effectiveness will be checked. First rockets will be delivered in 2009, and its delivery will end in 2012, where the entire program of weapons delivery for all three warship will be finalized.

Within the agreement the Ministry of Economy has signed an offset agreement with SAAB, worth 127.3 million euro, for delivery of eight RBS 15 Mk II rockets, four launchers and rocket equipment.

Under the offset agreement the technology transfer for Polish military industry is envisioned. The RBS 15 Mk II rockets will be used for training purposes and - after modification of the command system - will be included in operational activities.

The signed agreement is a very important element of the technical modernization program of Polish Armed Forces - bringing at the same time tangible benefits to Polish military industry. The Polish warships will be equipped with the newest generation weaponry, which satisfy all strategic and quality standards prescribed by NATO. Identical weaponry has been purchased by German Navy, recognizing that the technical parameters and operational capabilities of RBS are one of the best in the world.

Basic data of SAAB RBS15 Mk3 missile
The RBS 15 Mk3 missile is an anti-warship rocket, described as "shoot and forget". It may be used any time a day or night, without weather limitation.

Main parameters:
range more than 200 km
very low flight height, adaptable to varying sea levels
high class system for elimination and selection of target
high resistance to damages and destruction
easy programmability, small radar reflection and small infrared radiationTechnical data:
Length 4.45 m
diameter 0.50 m
wing span 1.40 m
weight without start engines 630 kg
weight with start engines 800 kgsource: http://www.wp.mil.pl/artykul_wiecej.php?idartykul=2321
translated by MZ

See also: http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2930845&postcount=793
See also video: http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2970868&postcount=907

[marlowe]

Photos of ORP "Grom" with RBS-15 Mk.II in Poland:
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2973286&postcount=37
p-)

[Mishka Zubov]

Thanks, what a coincidence, marlowe. :-)

[Mishka Zubov]

Mission to Iraq: not everything worked
Ministers respond to questions of members of parliament

19:50, 09.01.2008 /PAP

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A successive PMC rotation departs to IraqProudly marching and pretending that there is no horse-sh1t around? How symbolic - especially considering the title of this article! :-) - MZ

Chief of diplomacy Radosław Sikorski, minister of defense Bogdan Klich and chief of General Staff Franciszek Gągor, were ensuring the Sejm that the mission to Iraq has brought some benefits to Poland although not all targets have been achieved.

The reps of the government were answering questions of members of Parliamentary Commission of Defense and External Affairs.

According to Sikorski, the fundamental task facing the government four years ago - strengthening our economic presence in Iraq - has not been implemented due to no fault of our own. The failure in this field is the conflict escalation which no one could predict.

Sikorski also admitted that the hopes of support for Polish industry in its bids for Iraqi contracts by USA were excessive, and the condition bordering the civil war scared away Polish businesses, which did not have any governmental support either. - Three years of economic contacts have been dominated by export of Polish military equipment - said Sikorski.

The chief of diplomacy added though that the decision of finalization of Iraq mission might mean replacement of military cooperation by the economical one. Currently, the government has to decide whether - following the pattern of other states - it will agree on significant reduction of Iraqi debt to Poland - more than 880 millions PLN - or to count on Iraq to become rich again on its oil and to pay back its debt.

Benefits to armed forces

But, according to the government, the Iraqi mission has brought some benefits - especially to the armed forces. MoD chief Bogdan Klich included to those benefits the training of Polish soldiers in Iraq and solidification of Poland's presence in the Middle East.

Sikorski - a former minister of defense - said that the Iraqi experience brings a negative assessment of caveats of certain countries regarding participation of their armies in joint operations. For example, soldiers of some countries serving under Polish command were, forbidden to participate in offensive operation or to participate in night patrols.

Withdrawal scheduled and consulted

The ministers also assured that the withdrawal decision has been agreed with Iraqis and Americans and the process had been planned in details. Responding to the MPs questions Klich reminded that most of the expenses regarding Polish mission to Iraq are carried by USA. This year expenses for Iraqi mission are estimated as 180 million PLN.

Chief of General Staff gen. Franciszek Gągor informed in turn that the army is currently assessing what part of equipment will be brought back to Poland and what part - taking into account needs of Iraqi army - will be left behind.

Mission since 2003

Polish Military Contingent (PMC) operates in Iraq since September 2003, when the Multinational Division Center-South, under Polish command, took over responsibility for the center-south zone from the Americans. That zone was then covering 5 out of 18 Iraqi provinces. PMC had then 2500 soldiers.

According to the decision of the President of Poland the mission to Iraq will last at most to the end of October 2008. Currently the soldiers of the 10th PMC rotation depart to Iraq. The rotation will take over the duties in the middle of February. It will still have about 900 soldiers.

source: http://www.tvn24.pl/0,1534827,wiadomosc.html
translated by MZ

[wholagun]

will Gawron corvettes also be fitted with RBS-15 Mk.II?

What is the current status of the Gawron Corvettes?

[Mishka Zubov]

Iraqi Army Day in Diwaniyah
by Włodzimierz Głogowski
Monday, January 07 2008

On January 6 a delegation of Multinational Division Center-South, headed by its commander Polish MAJ-GEN Tadeusz Buk, was invited to Iraqi Army barracks by MAJ-GEN Othman Ali Farhood, a commander of 8th Division of Iraqi Army, to celebrate Iraqi Army Day.

Besides the soldiers, among the participants of the celebration were representatives of provincial authorities, tribal leaders and families of Iraqi soldiers who had died in the service. The celebration started with a prayer for the killed, then there was a speech given by general Farhood. He was stressing recent successes of his division in the stabilization of situation in Qadisiyah province and he thanked all the soldiers for their devotion and diligence.

The high point of the celebration was a parade of the Iraqi soldiers and exhibition of their equipment.

Besides helping in organization of the ceremony, the MND CS soldiers have delivered parcels with cloths, cleaning agents, food and portable power generators for the families of Iraqi soldiers who had died in the service. They were prepared by the CIMIC group, which provides humanitarian aid to inhabitants of the province and manages aid projects.

The soldiers of multinational division train and advise the Iraqi soldiers of the 8th Division, but first of all carry joint operations with them. Current operation "Lion Pounce", which is designed to bring back the safety to Diwaniyah and to the entire Qadisiyah province, is implemented by the Iraqi soldiers and police officers - with significant support of MND CS units. The results show that the Iraqi Army is being better and better trained and equipped - which allows them taking control over the province.

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Photos: MAJ Artur Surmacz
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10895&Itemid=29
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

This article is almost a copy of the previous one: just replace the words 'soldiers' by 'police officers' and you get the mutation to this one. Both celebration were three days apart. The programs were similar: prayer, speeches, gifts. But there was one significant difference: the parade of police officers was taking place in the center of Diwaniyah, not in the barracks. That says something about either a level of their brazenness of about real security in the city.


Iraqi Police Day in Diwaniyah
2008-01-09

On January 9, the 86th anniversary of creation of Iraqi Police has been celebrated at the center of Diwaniyah. Invited by chief of Qadisiyah Province BRIG-GEN Kadhum Safa was also Polish MAJ-GEN Tadeusz Buk, a commander of Multinational Division Center-South.

Besides the police officers, among the participants in the celebration were representatives of provincial authorities, tribal leaders and families of Iraqi policemen who had died in service. The celebration started with a prayer for the killed, then there were speeches of the governor of the province and the chief of the police. Both were stressing recent successes of Iraqi security forces and coalition forces in bringing stabilization to Qadisiyah.

The most picturesque element of the celebration was the parade of the police units and the presentation of their equipment.

General Buk, in the name of MND CS soldiers, handed over parcels with cloths, cleaning agents and food for the families of Iraqi police officers who had died in service. They were prepared by CIMIC group, which provides humanitarian aid to inhabitants of the province and manages aid projects.

MND CS soldiers train and cooperate with Iraqi police in Diwaniyah and in the entire Quadisiyah province. "Thanks to joint operations with the police and Iraqi Army the celebration of the Police Day could be carried in the center of the city without major concerns. Iraqi police is representing better and better level of training and preparation for taking over the responsibility for the province" - said MAJ-GEN Tadeusz Buk.

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LT-COL Włodzimierz Głogowski
Press Officer
Chief of Press Information Department
MND CS
Camp echo, Diwaniyah, Iraq

photos: Autor: MAJ Artur Surmacz
http://www.do.wp.mil.pl/aktualnosc.php?idaktualnosc=599

[Mishka Zubov]

First MEV Rosomaks from WZM delivered to MoD

First 6 out of 31 scheduled Medical Evaluation Vehicles, built on the Rosomak's chassis, have been delivered to MoD by the end of December last year. Formal takeover of the vehicles took place on January 9 2008, after trials in WITPiS in Sulejówko and completion of requested corrections. The remaining 25 vehicles are to be delivered in the years 2008-2010.

http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/9118/ii0801021roso2ly6.jpg
One of the first six medical evacuation vehicles Rosomak-WEM, delivered to MoD at the beginning of January. Photo: WZMRosomak-WEM is designed to use at the battalion and mechanized company (motorized, tank) level. Its functional spec is:
collection of injured from the battle field, in direct contact with enemy, and their evacuation to a battalion dressing post
providing first medical aid by a paramedic and a nurse by dressing the wounds and traumas and maintaining the vital signs
during peace missions: providing first doctor's aid, including resuscitation and stabilization of vital signs in the threat areas
Its crew is made of four soldiers: commander - paramedic, two nurses and a driver - mechanic.

The expectations of Land Forces are that the level of the ballistic protection remains the same as in the battle version of Rosomak. It has been therefore suggested by WZM and AZM Kutno that the first six medical evacuation vehicles will keep the external structure intact. Anticipated intervention to the structure of the remaining vehicles will require detailed prototyping research and static and dynamic tests, which may impact the cost of those vehicles. The decisions about configuration of the next vehicles are to be taken by the middle of February.

http://img255.imageshack.us/img255/3941/ii0801021roso3pz3.jpg
Interior of Rosamak-WEM, as prepared by AMZ Kutno, did not change much compared to the battle version. Photo WZMRosomak-WEM supposes to provide means for evacuation of minimal three injured in horizontal position and to have capability of evacuation of the wounded in sitting position as well.

The external dimensions of the medical vehicles should allow for its railway, sea and air transport - similarly as in other versions of Rosomak. But it has to be additionally adapted to operation in a contaminated terrain (it has to provide Nuclear-Biological-Chemical (NBC) protection) and it has to be provided with a camping kit, allowing for preparation of hot meals and allow for sleeping in the field conditions. The kit should contain a liquid fuel cooker that works with kerosine, gasoline, or oil; set of pots and sleeping bags for the crew.

The medical equipment:
oxygen installation for three patients of AGA type
two 10 liter oxygen bottles with reducers, attachments and shields
200 atm pressure oxygen installation
i.v. holders for three injured persons
stretcher mounts with capability of restraining the injured, according to specs PN-72/Z-78006 as well as STANAG 2040
three NATO standard stretchers (STANAG 2040) with restraining belts
a sliding stretcher
orthopedic board
two orthopedic collars of multiple usage
immobilizing splint kits (regular and pneumatic)
a bar for quick installation of defibrillator, with 12V and 230V receptacles
a space for a paramedic's rescue case or a nurse's packsack, with maximal dimensions 600 x 350 x 280 mm
a space for a warmer of infusion fluids, with 12 V receptacle
http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/200/ii0801021roso1sa1.jpg
A day-light camera with a light source can be telescopically raised through the roof hatch of the vehicle for all around observation, also during the vehicle movement, from the commander's position, just behind the driver. Data from the camera is being sent to DD9620T display. Photo WZMThe forward part of the medical compartment and its upper parts contain the built in wall-cupboards and shelves for various small medical equipment. A cupboard for narcotics is lockable and all cupboards and drawers have secure latches to prevent their opening and displacements during the vehicle movement. The interior materials are easy for washing and disinfection.

The medical compartment is equipped with air-conditioning system to keep the temperature in the range of 18-25 degrees Celsius - both in the tropical conditions, as well as in arctics.

The original electrical installation has been modernized and 12V and 230V receptacles have been added. The GPS receiver HGPST-T is a built in part of the vehicle. A significant number of those receivers has been bought from Hertz in October 2007. The receiver is equipped with Selective Availability Anti-Spoof Module (SAASM) from IIT, which assures safe work of the receiver when there is an attempt of jamming its GPS signal.
source: http://www.altair.com.pl/
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

The Navy will have the modern corvette this year

by pap
Thursday, January 10 2008

- The first modern corvette of class "Gawron" will be delivered to Polish Navy this year - said the Navy commander Vice Admiral Andrzej Karweta.

The warship supposed to be ready three years ago. The initial work started in 2001, but the defense budget cuts caused the delays in the enterprise, which cost was originally estimated as 1 billion PLN.

"Some sections of the ship are already in Navy Shipyard, the work on hull assembly should start in summer and the vessel should be ready by the end of the year. Obviously she has to go first through a series of trials and tests before she enters service in the Navy" - said Vice Admiral Karweta during the press briefing on Wednesday in Gdynia, where he was disclosing the Navy schedule for this year.

He also announced modernization of logistic support warship ORP "Kontradmirał Xawery Czernicki".

Three "Orkan" class warships are to be equipped with modern weaponry - eight rocket missiles RBS MK II, manufactured by Swedish Saab. "The missiles have 100 kilometers range, and while moving only few meters above the sea level they are hardly detectable by enemy radars" - said Navy press spokesman Bartosz Zajda. He added that these are maneuvering missiles, which may change their course during the flight and attack the target from the most convenient direction at a given time.

The Navy warships will be taking part in more than 20 international and NATO exercises, including crises response exercises "Northern Coast", "Neptun Warrior" and "Loyal Mariner".

In June our 90 years old Navy wants to invite Polish Navy veterans and combatants for the 5th World Convention of Polish Sailors.


source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=10989&Itemid=69

[marlowe]

Gawron won't be delivered this year. By the end of this year Naval Shipyard in Gdynia wants to assembly the hull, they want to launch Gawron in the first half of 2009 and the ship should be commissioned in 2012.

[Mishka Zubov]

I stand corrected. I should have said "will be ready" rather "will be delivered". I did not realized that this might be construed as " will be commissioned", which was not my intention. Other than that i am just repeating what PAP said - I was not there.

[Mishka Zubov]

MoD: 400 soldiers to Chad, cost of one year mission - 100 million PLN
awe, PAP
2008-01-10

http://img186.imageshack.us/img186/3903/czad1sv0.jpg
Soldiers from the 17th "Wielkopolska" Mechanized Brigade from Wędrzyn training for the peacekeeping mission to Chad. January 10, 2008.MoD is going to increase a size of Polish Military Contingent (PMC) to Chad from 350 to 400 soldiers. The mission cost, which is not to last longer than one year is estimated as 100 million PLN (28 million EUR).

Last Thursday the Parliamentary Defense Commission has been briefed by MoD representatives about a state of preparations to the mission. Deputy minister of defense Stanisław Komorowski said that the contingent has been increased from 350 to 400 soldiers due to our intention of sending two helicopters there. Full readiness of the contingent could be reached in June while its deployement could begin in March/April. But firstly the EU decision needs to be taken about a start date of the mission. This is expected to happen on January 28.

According to Komorowski, there are two reasons for Poland's involvement in this operation - humanitarian and political. The deputy minister pointed to dramatic situation of civilian population and to the fact that the activities of United Nation and of African Union have proved ineffective thus far - without a support of European Union. He also added that Poland - contributing to improvement of the security in Africa - wishes also to strengthen its position in defining the European security and defense policy.

Chief of General Staff GEN Franciszek Gągor has assured the committee that PMC will stay in Chad for no longer than one year. He also said that some instructors from other countries, such as USA and Canada, are involved in training of Polish soldiers to the mission, and that the Polish army builds on experiences of France, Germany and Czech Republic.

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Gągor cited an opinion of the military counter-intelligence, which states that our armed forces in Chad will be facing lesser threat levels than the "soft civilian targets".

Chairman of the parliamentary commission Janusz Zemke (LiD) stressed that the most difficult aspect of the mission will be its medical provision due to the Chad climate. GEN Gągor assured that the army is preparing its medical care at a suitable level.

European Union, mandated by United Nations, intends to send the peacekeeping mission to Chad in order to protect refugees from the Sudanese Darfur, which are escaping from the regions of battles between the rebels and the government army.

The start of the mission is being delayed because of lack of means of transport and of adequate medical provisions. Earlier on, the start of the mission was set for December last year, but it had to be postponed due to lack of helicopters and of one of the three planned field hospitals.

The majority of more than 4000 soldiers strong force - including the reserves - will be provided by France. A part of the Polish contingent will be a maneuver company of the military police, which have some relevant experience brought from the Congo peacekeeping mission, in 2006.

source: http://wiadomosci.gazeta.pl/Wiadomosci/1,80269,4827975.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Wounded ANA officer came to Poland for treatment
Autor: WO Mikolaj Mazurkiewicz
2008-10-01

A 26 years old ANA lieutenant flew to Poland yesterday for rehabilitation. LT Mashal P, had been injured during joint Polish-Afghan patrol on October 31 2007. He travelled by CASA C-295M transport airplane of Polish Air Force from Bagram, Afghanistan to military airport Kraków - Balice.
The wounded officer will be treated in rehabilitation center in Stróże, southern Poland, run by Aid Foundation for Disabled Persons.

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source: http://www.sp.mil.pl/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=151&Itemid=2
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Extension of base Sharana
by Krzysztof Wilewski
Friday, January 11 2008

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According to ISAF plans - in few years time the Base Sharana will become the most important logistic base of anti-terrorist coalition in Afghanistan, rather than Bagram Airport. This is why it has been extensively developed for the last several months.

The construction plan provides for modernization of the existing landing strip, construction of a second landing strip, extension of workshops and warehouses, and preparation of additional sleeping quarters and service barracks.

According to schedule - the Base Sharana will become the main logistic base of ISAF forces in this part of Afghanistan, and later - in the entire country. Although only two years ago the Americans thought that such role should have been assigned to the Base Salerno, but the detailed analyses have shown that the base Sharana has a better location.

The commands of Polish battle Group and National Supply Element of Polish Military Contingent are located in Sharana.

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The construction works at the base have started in earnest in the middle of last year. Currently the base looks more like a gigantic construction place rather than a military base. What is most important in this entire enterprise is the fact that there are Afghan companies and Afghan workers hired for this project. American and Polish engineers are only directing their work.

By giving contracts to local enterprises and providing work for local population there is a real chance that the Afghan economy will lift out of poverty and war ruin. This is implementation of the principle: give them fishing rods, not fish.

Photos: Krzysztof Wilewski
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=11040&Itemid=29
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

NATO chief denies allies 'not active' in Afghanistan

6 hours ago

BRUSSELS (AFP) — NATO Secretary General Jaap de Hoop Scheffer has rejected suggestions that not enough allies are pulling their weight in Afghanistan, as he welcomed US plans to send more troops there.

"You cannot say the allies are not active enough, because they are active," he said in Brussels at a New Year media reception Thursday.

"If you look at the recent past, you see a number of allies stepping up to the plate. Even yesterday, we heard that Poland has made a very substantial and considerable offer, including eight helicopters -- which is a lot -- and ground forces for Afghanistan."

"Nations like Slovakia, Hungary, Georgia, France, the Czech Republic, Australia, Norway, Singapore, Azerbaijan -- all according to their capabilities ... -- have recently contributed or are contributing forces," he said.

The Pentagon announced Wednesday that US Defense Secretary Robert Gates is considering sending some 3,000 additional marines ahead of an expected offensive by Taliban-led insurgents in the spring.

"I am very happy and glad that the US government is in the process of taking this decision. I say again, the Polish offer was extremely substantial yesterday," Scheffer said.

NATO is engaged in its most ambitious mission ever trying to spread the rule of President Hamid Karzai's weak central government into more lawless parts of Afghanistan.

But the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) which the alliance leads has struggled to defeat the insurgency, particularly in the south and east near the mountainous border with Pakistan.

According to NATO figures, the number of troops in ISAF -- now provided by 39 nations -- rose from around 33,000 in January 2007, to almost 42,000 by December.

ISAF's military requirements are revised at least once every six months and, while they can move up or down based on current goals, the trend over the last year has clearly been upward.

Despite this, the United States has repeatedly led calls -- backed by commanders on the ground in Afghanistan -- for more troops and equipment, particularly helicopters.

With around 140 suicide attacks, 2007 was the bloodiest year in Afghanistan since the Taliban were ousted from power in late 2001, according to a United Nations survey.
source: http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5i2fk6bg1XbhuT2pNn06tSSrgGBqw

[Mishka Zubov]

A story about Polish police officers serving in Mitrovica, Kosovo, and a bit about Polish soldiers from POLUKRBAT:
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2977995&postcount=1

[Mishka Zubov]

Attack on Polish patrol in Iraq
by www.mon.gov.pl (http://www.mon.gov.pl)
Friday, january 11 2008

This morning a joint reconnaissance patrol of Polish and Iraqi soldiers has been attacked by unknown perpetrators with machine gun fire. One attacker was killed during the exchange of fire.

No member of the patrol was harmed. The attack happened during search of a suspected object, most likely used by criminal groups, 60 km east of Diwaniyah. Two AK-47 rifles have been found at the place of the attack. A pursuit after the remaining attackers was aborted due to bad weather conditions and difficult terrain. They managed to escape.

Current activities of soldiers from Special Forces Formation of Multinational Division Center-South, together with Iraqi platoons, are designed to cleanup the Qadisiyah province from criminal and extremist groups who had escaped Diwaniyah during the operation "Lion Pounce".

Last Thursday the soldiers of the 8th Division of Iraqi Army were searching the house belonging a leader of a terrorist group, detained several days earlier. As a result, they confiscated 18 improvised explosive devices, 36 hand grenades and several artillery missiles.

Intensive patrolling and search of suspected objects lead to safety of Diwaniyah inhabitants and of coalition soldiers.
source: http://redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=362&Itemid=54
translated by MZ

*** Updated ***
To understand what they meant by bad weather and terrain condition see the associated pictures here:
http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/showpost.php?p=2978185&postcount=1432

[Jag_är_ inte_svenska]

So are the GROM activating in both Iraq and Afghanistan? Several articles state their contribution to the battles in Kandahar.

Since this is the final deployment to Iraq, i wanted to ask a bit. How many Poles have served in IRaq overall? How much has the mission there cost?Did their contribution to the Multinational Force make a difference? Did the Poles participate in any big battles? How would u say the difference of being in Iraq has made on Poland? Did it better relations with the US? Did it hurt relations with the EU?

[b4bhc]

Hello all,

I apologize if this has already been answered or mentioned in a previous post but here goes:

While in Iraq, I traded uniforms with a Polish army Plutonowy. He was a very nice man and now I am wondering what kind of unit he might have been with. This was in mid to late 2005 and early 2006.
Can anybody here please give me a list of the Polish units that have served in Iraq around this time?
Thank you.

[Mishka Zubov]

So are the GROM activating in both Iraq and Afghanistan? Several articles state their contribution to the battles in Kandahar.

Since this is the final deployment to Iraq, i wanted to ask a bit. How many Poles have served in IRaq overall? How much has the mission there cost?Did their contribution to the Multinational Force make a difference? Did the Poles participate in any big battles? How would u say the difference of being in Iraq has made on Poland? Did it better relations with the US? Did it hurt relations with the EU?

A part of the confusion re GROM may be caused by the wording they sometimes use in their reports from Iraq: "Zgrupowanie Sił Specjalnych". I translated it as "Special Forces Formation", where the word "Formation" is rather loosely used, because Polish "zgrupowanie" may also mean a "group" or a "concentration". However, there is no logical reason to use the word "zgrupowanie" in the former sense, because the Polish "grup" (for the English "group") would have then been used instead. The latter meaning, a "concentration", sounds to me too grandiose, as it implies something much bigger, something on a tactical scale - like concentration of several brigades or something. "Zgrupowanie" is also used in a sense of a central training camp for athletes, especially before some special event. Again, it implies something central and rather big.

This is why I translated "Zgrupowanie Sił Specjalnych" as "Special Forces Formation".

Why do I elaborate so much on this issue? Well, quoting wikipedia entry on GROM: The unit's full name, in Polish, is Wojskowa Formacja Specjalna GROM im. Cichociemnych Spadochroniarzy Armii Krajowej (Special Military Formation GROM of the Cichociemni parachutists of Armia Krajowa), although this title is purely formal and is rarely used.So GROM is "Special Military Formation, etc." (loosely translating), while those guys in Iraq, in my translation, are of "Special Forces Formation". But this does not necessary imply that those guys in Iraq are from GROM unit. This may mean anything: real special forces such as guys from 1st Commando Regiment, or anything else - as everybody likes to be "special forces" nowadays. I am sure someone here knows the real answer...

Older reports from Iraq were only referring either to "Battle Group" a.k.a "TF Lynx" (in reference to the bulk of the force there) or to "Task Force Falcon" a.k.a. "Samodzielna Grupa Powietrzno-Szturmowa" (Independent Air Assault Group) - describing guys from the 25th Air Cavalry Brigade. Now we have this "Special Forces Formation" as well.

I'd say this is all done in quite effective attempt to confuse the enemy ... and all of us. :-)

[marlowe]

Hello all,

I apologize if this has already been answered or mentioned in a previous post but here goes:

While in Iraq, I traded uniforms with a Polish army Plutonowy. He was a very nice man and now I am wondering what kind of unit he might have been with. This was in mid to late 2005 and early 2006.
Can anybody here please give me a list of the Polish units that have served in Iraq around this time?
Thank you.

If I’m not mistaken that was fifth rotation of Polish military contingent in Iraq. Unfortunately I can’t find detailed list of units, but majority of soldiers on that rotation were from 1st Warsaw Mechanized Division (including about 300 soldiers from 21st Podhale Rifles Brigade). I know that there were also about 80 soldiers from 49th Combat Helicopters Regiment from Pruszcz Gdanski.

[Mishka Zubov]

will Gawron corvettes also be fitted with RBS-15 Mk.II?

What is the current status of the Gawron Corvettes?

I just found this snippet that relates to the first part of your question - Gawron is not mentioned in such context. The second part has been already answered elsewhere.

Mk3 generation of missiles RBS15 will be delivered on decks of Orkan class warships in 2009-2010. The question is what will have to be done with the eight Mk2 missiles that will need to be then removed from those warships. One of the ideas is to install them on ORP Kaszub, which require thorough overhaul anyway - possibly extended by some modernization. Earlier suggestions that Mk2 version of RBS15 will be installed on decks of Oliver Hazard Perry class frigates (or one such frigate) are neither confirmed nor denied. One is certain: analyses of how to effectively use the Mk2 missiles have been undertaken and the future fate of Mk2 will depend on their outcome.source: Plany MW pod wodzą wiceadmirała Karwety, 10.01.2008, http://www.altair.com.pl/

[Mishka Zubov]

Eleven and half thousand liters of "parzybroda" soup[1] are to be cooked in Sosnowiec, Silesia, which will be served for free on January 13 - at the finale of the "Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity", http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Great_Orchestra_of_Christmas_Charity, in Sosnowiec.

http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/328/wosphf7.jpg

On Saturday the cooks have started cutting the necessary ingredients: 500 kg of smoked bacon, 300 kg of smoked dewlap, 200 kg of pork fat, 2500 kg of cabbage and 1000 kg of potatoes. The soup will be flavored with 120 kg of salt and 100 kg of pepper. The organizers hope to be entered into Guiness Book of Records.source: http://www.tvn24.pl/10816,2098203,0,0,1,0,0,galeria.html

http://img177.imageshack.us/img177/4041/3b195a2e9e7d9fe2d31b70aol2.jpg

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/6893/3b48c7568e63a201af86521vp6.jpg

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http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/5109/8aa8e67ff9d84927b8ca89avc5.jpg

The proceeds of this year's, the 16th event, will go to aid for children with ear, nose and throat diseases. Money will be donated to support advanced diagnostic and treatment of hearing defects in newborn and small children, to support medical departments specializing in serious throat diseases - including treatment of burns and removal of foreign objects, and to support medical facilities specializing in therapy of oncologic diseases in head and neck areas.

Most military units of Polish Armed Forces - both at home and abroad: Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo - participate in this annual charity event. Polish soldiers will be collecting money, donating blood, organizing auctions, sports events, fitness and mock fight presentations, rock concerts, etc. Their commanders will be donating for auction gifts, which they had received from local authorities or tribal leaders, such as a water pipe, or a sheik dress; or other more or less original or valuable mementos from their service at home and abroad.

[1] "Parzybroda" - literally, a chin-scorcher, a chin searing soup. A peasant soup made of cabbage, potatoes, bacon, fat and some spices, of which most important are caraway and black pepper - the latter in big quantities. Due to its high fat content it is served very hot and this is where its name originated from: from a burning sensation - both external (if one is not careful) and internal (a very peppery taste).

There are varieties of regional recipes, differing in kind of cabbage used (some require savoy cabbage instead of regular one), or addition of mushrooms or other spices. Some recipes even call for milk, although this seems to me as an abuse of the good old "parzybroda". But huge quantity of black pepper is always required, since sweet cabbage affiliates extremely well with black pepper - as proven by many other simple comfort foods, such as "łazanki" - pasta, cabbage, a bit of bacon and pepper.

[Mishka Zubov]

Hmm..


Philippine defence department investigating chopper contract

Friday, 11 January 2008

The Philippines is investigating complaints by a Polish helicopter maker of irregularities in the bidding for six attack choppers, a spokesman said yesterday.Defence Secretary Gilbert Teodoro has created a committee to look into the allegations by PZL Swidnik "that there have been steps in the bidding process that were not followed strictly or were violated to favour the winning bidder" US firm, McDonnell Douglas.

The contract, amounting to 29 million dollars, is for six helicopters capable of launching attacks at night, said Teodoro's spokesman Nelson Victoriano.The secretary is not "passing judgement on these allegations" but just wants to ensure that the bidding is free of irregularities, Victoriano added.He said Swidnik had charged that it was disqualified from the bidding for flimsy reasons and that the MD 530F helicopter, offered by the winning bidder, did not qualify with the specifications sought by Manila.

The contract has not been awarded yet but the US firm is apparently the only one that qualified, Victoriano said.The committee, made up of defence undersecretaries and other officials, will submit its findings by January 21 and if there are any irregularities, the contract will be scrapped, he added.The investigation will likely slow down the acquisition of the helicopters, which the military says are crucial for bolstering the government's fight against communist guerrillas and Muslim extremists.

"We need these choppers badly," said Victoriano.
source: http://www.macaudailytimesnews.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=5241&Itemid=32

[Mishka Zubov]

F-16 Aircrew Training System - 2nd phase


NEW YORK, NY, December 20, 2007 - L-3 Communications (NYSE: LLL) announced today completion of the second phase of the Polish Air Force’s F-16 Aircrew Training System (ATS), one of the world’s first F-16 simulation systems to integrate the increased mission capability of the platform’s Modular Mission Computer (MMC) 7000 avionics.

These phase two system capabilities have been integrated and accepted on the Polish F-16C/D Block 52 Squadron Level Trainer at L-3’s Arlington, TX operation.


Official Press Release

Contact: Rick Oyler
Link Simulation & Training
817-619-3536

Second phase modifications also are being made to two F-16 ATS training devices that L-3 delivered to Poland’s Krzesiny Air Base in November 2006. The devices, an F-16C/D Block 52 Full Mission Trainer and an F-16C/D Block 52 Squadron Level Trainer, will be updated with MMC 7000 avionics, new sensors, smart weapons, advanced air-to-air weaponry and an advanced radar warning receiver and electronic countermeasure system.

In addition to the full mission trainer and two squadron level trainers, L-3 -- via its subcontractor ETC-PZL Aerospace Industries of Warsaw, Poland -- has delivered an F-16C/D Block 52 Egress Procedures Trainer to Krzesiny Air Base and will deliver a similar device to Lask Air Base.

"The Polish F-16 Aircrew Training System was designed from the outset to maintain concurrency with the advanced capabilities of the F-16C/D Block 52 aircraft," said Mike Wallace, Vice President of Air Force and Navy Programs at L-3 Link Simulation and Training. "We have achieved that milestone with this most recent update and continue to look forward to working with the Polish Air Force to maximize their F-16 pilot training capabilities."

The F-16 Full Mission Trainer is integrated with L-3’s nine-panel SimuSphere™ visual display, which provides pilots with a 360° field-of-view. L-3’s SimuView™ personal computer image generation system powers both out-the-window and cockpit sensor display imagery viewed by the pilot. This high fidelity trainer is being used to reinforce a full range of pilot warfighting skills, including low-level flight, formation exercises, air refueling, takeoffs and landings, and emergency procedures. Pilots are able to acquire and identify targets and deliver a full range of weapons during simulated air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.

F-16 Squadron Level Trainers, which also are integrated with SimuView and a three-panel SimuSphere visual display, are being used to support extensive procedural training to allow pilots to sharpen their aircraft systems operational skills and practice basic flight maneuvers and emergency procedures.

The F-16 Full Mission Trainer and Squadron Level Trainers also are integrated with a geo-specific visual database built by L-3 subcontractor ETC-PZL that encompasses the majority of Poland’s sovereign borders.

Pilots practice all aspects of ground and in-flight egress, in addition to operation of life support systems, within the F-16 Egress Procedures Trainer.

Link Simulation and Training (L-3 Link) is a systems integration organization that delivers and supports training systems and equipment to enhance operational proficiency. L-3 Link’s current services include conducting front-end analysis, program design, simulator design, production and field support, and aircraft logistics support. L-3 Link has major operations in Arlington, TX, and other key bases of operation in Binghamton, NY; Orlando, FL; Broken Arrow, OK and Phoenix, AZ.

Headquartered in New York City, L-3 Communications employs over 63,000 people worldwide and is a prime system contractor in aircraft modernization and maintenance, C3ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) systems and government services. L-3 is also a leading provider of high technology products, subsystems and systems. The company reported 2006 sales of $12.5 billion.

To learn more about L-3 Communications, please visit the company’s web site at

www.L-3Com.com (http://www.L-3Com.com).

[Mishka Zubov]

Winter in Sharana

A group of American athletes has recently visited base Sharana, Paktika and posted some of their impressions in their blogs. Yes, it is wintery there - snow storms, drifts, and cold. Helicopter flights are often being cancelled and Christmas mail has not come to some of the soldiers yet. - But the soldiers stay on guard and do their range training.

That's what the girls are saying...

Now I wonder where are those pictures and stories promised by the Polish TVP crew not so long ago. Too cold and too far away from the Bagram's HQ? I told you so.. :-)

When we landed in Sharana (I had to take my hands of the wheel for this part), we were surrounded by a blanket of snow — it was white as far as the eye could see. We then went out to meet a lot of the troops that were stationed amongst the base in different guard stations.

The troops there were awesome and very grateful for us making the trip out to their camp because not even mail had been able to reach them since Christmas because of the weather. Our next mission was out at the range. There were a mix of both US and Polish soldiers that were excited to show us how to shoot. -Jessica Mendoza, American athlete, http://blog.jmendoza.com/2008/01/11/sharana-afghanistan/

... We drove around the edge of the base, which is just under 5 miles (they run it for PT class), and we stopped at a couple of the towers. Tower 8 had an incredible view. However, with the snow drifts, you could see how someone could walk up to the edge of camp without being seen.

These men and women work long hours protecting the base. I got to use the binoculars to check out a couple men walking slowly by the base. Most likely they were just Afghani farmers, but they have to be on alert just in case.

Next, we drove by the gun range and talked to a couple of U.S. military men that were working with and teaching the Polish guys out at the “zero” range. We came back a little later, and they let us try our hand at shooting M4’s and M9’s. The M4 has selective fire options including semiautomatic and three-round burst. That was the toughest. I was more concerned I’d shoot a bird than the target the way it forces itself up with each burst. I preferred the M9 which is a semiautomatic, double-action pistol. I had a little better luck with it.

After that, one of the Polish guys let me try out his weapon, an assault rifle of some sort. It was pretty tough. My shoulder is still a little sore from the weight. The guys were all really nice to take the time to show us around and talk to us about the guns and how to use them safely.

I got them to sign my target sheet to take home with me. Next up, lunch at the DFAC and a meet and greet with the soldiers. We signed autographs, gave out Frisbees and took pictures before getting the call that an aircraft was heading back to Bagram and if we didn’t make that flight, we may not get back.

With the horrible snow storms, there have been countless canceled flights and few coming in. In fact, many of the soldiers are still waiting on their Christmas mail and gifts to arrive! - Shannon Miller, American gymnast, http://wcsnblogs.com/gymnastics/shannonmiller/shannonmiller/2008/01/12/bargram-to-sharana-and-back/

[corran.pl]

We are sending two Mi-8 helicopters and 8 Rosomaks (+1 Rosomak-WEM) to Chad.

[Mishka Zubov]

...according to Lt-Col Jan Vall, deputy chief of the military liaison officers of the UN Mission in the Central African Republic and Chad (MINURCAT):

"It will be very complicated for the [local] people to manage and for humanitarians - for everyone - to know the difference," he agreed.

"I will be there in uniform, without arms, with a UN logo. The EU will be there with arms, with the EU logo. The French [troops stationed in Chad for more than two decades and who support Chadian President Idriss Déby] will be there, with the same uniforms as the French working for the EU, but with a French logo, and with a different interest, etc., etc,"


http://www.sudantribune.com/spip.php?article25546

And they will be wearing national patches too, I guess... :-)

[Mishka Zubov]

More than 30 million PLN (12.5 million USD, 8.4 million EU) has been collected yesterday during the 16th finale of "Great Orchestra of Christmas Charity" event in Poland. Soldiers from Polish bases abroad also participated in the event - collecting money, auctioning symbolic items or organizing sports events. The soldiers from other contingents, such as Mongolians in Camp Echo, Diwaniyah, Qasidiyah, Iraq or Americans in Camp Sharana, Paktika, Afghanistan were gladly chipping in.

In Afghanistan the collections were taking place in Bagram Airport, FON Ghazni, FOB Warrior, FOB Sharana and FOB Wazi-Kkwa.

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Ayatt, eight years old Iraqi girl, who was treated in Poland in 2005 thanks to the 13th charity event, came to visit Camp Echo, Iraq during this year event

http://hotimg6.fotki.com/a/99_234/51_136/orkiestra4.jpg

[Mishka Zubov]

I am amazed to see such a big volume of denouncements coming from the official site of Ministry of National Defense. Paper, pencil and rubber stamp seem like tools of choice of the current Polish chief of MoD. I also do not appreciate his habit of bragging left and right and giving copious, ill-conceived interviews. I am even scared just to think about tomorrow's revelations, after his meeting with Robert Gates.

Anyway, the following note is not signed. Whoever has issued it he/she deserves five bureaucratic stars. Here they are: *****. :-(



2008-01-14

14.01. Warszawa. MoD Communique.

In reference to the statement of MAJ-GEN Roman Polko in today's „Rzeczypospolita”, regarding planned activity of National Security Bureau (BBN) with respect to withdrawal of our forces from Iraq, it has to be noted that Mister general Roman Polko, an officer of Polish Armed Forces, is once again commenting on decisions of his civilian superiors, and therefore he is breaking the democratic, observed standards of civilian control over the army.
...


source: http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/artykul/4016
translated by MZ


"Rzeczpospolita" - President will check what's going on in Iraq
Monday, January 14 2008

A special delegation headed by Władysław Stasiak, a chief of National Security Bureau (BBN), will go to Iraq in the middle of February. "Rzeczpospolita" informs that the BBN experts will be checking the state of preparations to the withdrawal of Polish soldiers.

According to general Roman Polko, a deputy chief of BBN, the date of withdrawal is not definitely sealed yet. He stressed that signing the government's application for extending the mission till October does not necessarily mean that it could not be either extended further or shortened.

"It all depends on how this operation is being prepared" - said general Polko to "Rzeczpospolita".

source: http://www.polskieradio.pl/iar/prasapolska/artykul3211693_rzeczpospolita___prezydent_sprawdzi__co_sie_dzieje_w_iraku.html
translated by MZ

Does anyone has an access to the original text of Polko's interview in "Rzeczpospolita"? I am not going along with their nonsense and I am not going to pay them for their - what they consider - "a valuable archival resource". Bull****!

Anyway, if Polko said just what was shortly outlined above then the MoD went way over their heads in issuing their denouncement.

On the other hand, Polko has thrown his lot together with the K&K brothers and he deserves what is coming to him. "A super-commando with great appetite for power" - as „Rzeczpospolita” described him in its June article, still available from the BBN website: http://www.bbn.gov.pl/index.php?lin=4&last=266&idtext=971

The only sad thing is that these are the Polish Armed Forces who are loosing on all this childish bickering of our "great leaders".

A while ago I watched a video of the Primo Ego definitely denying that his Alter Ego had been grumpy during the today's meeting of the Cabinet Council (convened to discuss health issues in Poland). He should know, he is one and the same. No surprise!

I'll finish up with my unsolicited support for Minister of Health Ewa Kopacz. Anyone eager to throw the first stone at her should remember that she is facing a very complex problem. I have watched many Canadian ministers of health falling from grace because they had not been able to cope with much less acute problems than she is facing now. Considering all those complexities I think she is doing quite a good job. So give her a break! If only the military leaders had been half as good as she is!

[Mishka Zubov]

A month old story from Gardez, Paktia, but worth to tell for few reasons. The Polish soldiers mentioned here are from an OMLT unit that trains ANA soldiers in Paktia. This is the first time I see the wording "Wojsko Polskie" in a story written by an American author. Strange. Also notice a boy with henna colored hair in the picture below. So far I have only seen henna-dyed beards of village elders. Well, always learning...


FOB Lightning assists ANA with humanitarian assistance mission

by Master Sgt. James Bardo
Deployed from 52nd Equipment Maintenance Squadron

12/18/2007 - FOB LIGHTNING, Afghanistan -- Late November, as folks were getting ready for their Thanksgiving dinners, service members from Forward Operating Base Lightning, Gardez prepared for a different event. Troops from the Afghan National Army were joined by U.S. service members from the Army, Navy and Air Force, as well as personnel from the Wojsko Polskie (Polish Army) to conduct a Humanitarian Assistance mission.

The purpose: to improve relations between the ANA and local residents in the Niazi-kala village. During coalition operations in 2001, Niazi-kala was heavily bombed and the destruction is still evident today. The U.S. and Polish military provided security while ANA soldiers handed out a truckload of donated clothing, school supplies and various other items to the local residents. The mission lasted for an hour and ended with a short meeting between the village elders and members of the ANA.

While the ANA conducted the HA mission, U.S. and Polish soldiers had and opportunity to meet and take pictures with some of the local residents. They all seemed grateful and the more than 300 children that showed up were eager to have their pictures taken by and with the ANA, U.S. and Polish forces.

In the end, the mission was announced a complete success by the Afghan National Army and Niaza-kala Village leaders. For the service members from FOB Lightning that got to assist in the mission, it was a great opportunity to meet the people they are here to help and an experience that many others will not have to see people that are truly thankful for things others often take for granted.

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FOB LIGHTNING, Afghanistan -- Master Sgt. James Bardo visits with one of the children from Niazikala. The boy's red hair is colored with Henna. Sergeant Bardo is deployed from the 52nd Equipment Maintenance Squadron at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. (U.S. Army photo/2nd Lt. Leslie Madron)source: http://www.usafe.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123079827

[Mishka Zubov]

Video: High technology used on the border with Ukraine
Poland: Guardians of the Eastern Border (http://www.dw-world.de/popups/popup_single_mediaplayer/0,,3003255_type_video_struct_11458,00.html?mytitle=Poland%253A%2BGuardians%2Bof%2Bthe%2BEastern%2BBorder)

Related article:

Concrete barriers on the border with Ukraine
Ukrainians protest against Schengen
20:05, 15.01.2008
TVN24, PAP

A big demonstration in front of the Polish consulate in Lviv and concrete barriers on the access roads to the Polish-Ukrainian border crossing at Krakowiec-Korczowa - this is how the inhabitants of the Ukrainian border zone demonstrate against new regulations for issuing Polish visas.

-There are concrete blocks and metal barriers on the access road to the border crossing. The officials who have finished their shift cannot go home for this reason - said our anonymous informer during a phone interview with PAP. According to local media, people participating in the demonstration are ready to block all night the access roads to the Krokowiec border crossing.

Demonstrations in Lviv

Earlier, the inhabitants of the border places demonstrated in front of the Polish consulate in Lviv. They demanded immediate signing of Polish-Ukrainian agreement about small cross border traffic. The Ukrainians expect that this would make it easier for the inhabitants of the 50 kilometer border zone to enter Poland.

Currently, after Poland has joined the Schengen zone, Ukrainians have to pay 35 EUR for the visas that used to cost nothing. The locals complain that these are one time only visas and they can only be obtained in Polish consulate in Lviv, several tens of kilometers away.
source: http://www.tvn24.pl/0,1535485,wiadomosc.html
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Maciej Wnuk in NATO anti-corruption working group
by Ministry of National Defence
2008-01-15

I inform that Mr. Maciej Wnuk - currently a chief of Anti-Corruption Procedures Bureau of MoD, will represent Polish MoD in NATO group for corruption prevention.

Minister of National Defense Bogdan Klich accepted a request of Ms. Susan Pond from International Secretariat of NATO for a Polish representative to chair an informal group working on a questionnaire for self assessment of practices related to corruption combat in defense and security sector. Bogdan Klich has chosen Mr. Maciej Wnuk for this position.

The task of the group is to prepare training programs, write a compendium of the best practices for corruption reduction and organize expert groups for aiding countries interested in it.

At the same time, I inform that Mr. Marcin Idzik has been nominated as Solicitor General, Plenipotentiary of Ministry of National Defense for Anti-Corruption Procedures.
source: http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/artykul/4018
translated by MZ

I wonder why a representative of Poland has been suggested as a chair for this group. Is it because Poland is ranked 61 in Worldwide Corruption Perceptions ranking table, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corruption_Perceptions_Index? :-)
Or is it because Mr. Wnuk is really an expert in this area? Not according to "Raport", a military expert magazine. I have no opinion on this subject, I just raise a flag. - MZ


A commissar is leaving MoD

One of the pathological symbols of PiS regime, Maciej Wnuk, a plenipotentiary of the chief of defense for anti-corruption procedures is leaving MoD. While officially he has been combatting corruption, in reality he has been favoring some offerers while battling others, and first of all - Polish military industry.

His first superior, former minister of defense Radosław Sikorski, described him as a commissar from PiS [Law and Justice, Kaczyński brothers party - MZ]. His zone of influence has been quite extensive. We have been writing about Mr. Wnuk's exploits many times in here, as in the article "A response to the reaction on 'Execution of a Rosomak, a Wheeled Aberration'".

Wnuk attempted forcing a choice of an American system of computer support for F-16 exploitation, without a tender, completely inadequate for Polish reality. He was trying doing everything to destroy Rosomak program in Poland. He was favoring a Brazilian Embraera Legacy in a tender for a plane for Polish VIPs. He even forbade the MoD officials to participate in happenings organized by Polish companies while allowing them to participate in similar events organized by Americans. (See: "MoN official lobbies for USA industry - the Great, Sad Showroom"). And nobody never has undertaken any steps against him.

He cleverly acted in such a way that others would be blamed for bad decisions he forced upon them. As it happened in the case of the destruction of completely equipped armored vehicle Rosomak, where the tests proposed by Maciej Wnuk have been formally ordered by minister Radosław Sikorski.

In the case of tender for VIP airplanes Maciej Wnuk hired paid observers from Transparency International Polska (TIP), which would be later recalled by the organization. The thing was that two out of three observers were workers of some other lawyer agency, completely unknown to TIP management. TIP board chairman Anna Urbańska learned about the situation from the media and consequently sent a complaint letter to a former minister of national defense Aleksander Szczygło.

Last January some aspects of activities of Mr. Wnuk have been described by daily Rzeczpospolita. In response Mr. Wnuk requested that the chief editor assigns other reporters than the original ones to any follow ups. He also refused answering any questions raised by the article.

In his farewell letter to the MoD officials he wrote that he has satisfied the plan in 145%. According to the letter, Wnuk supposes to participate in NATO corruption prevention group. It is unofficially known that he has been after this position in Brussels since the last days of the PiS regime.
source: http://www.altair.com.pl/
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Some of Mr. Morrell's implications seem pretty arrogant to me - as if he was saying that 'we own them anyway, they'll do what we want'. Some of his statements are targeting public opinion - like this bit about 3/4 of the billion dollar aid - without saying that a lot of it goes back to keeping Polish soldiers in Iraq anyway. [I already have read comments somewhere on net about Poles being "whores" that demand more and more - This is an old theme and I do not pay attention to such things anymore...]

But generally this briefing is still much clearer than whatever Klich had to say at his press conference - which was actually conveying nothing concrete. You may be mad at Americans sometimes for their "in your face attitude" but you must also appreciate them for their frankness.



Excerpt
DoD News Briefing with Press Secretary Geoff Morrell from the Pentagon
January 15, 2008 2:00 PM EST

...

Q Can you give us a readout on the secretary's meeting with the visiting Polish minister of Defense, in particular whether he was able to convey the government's newest positions or the basing question -- what they might require, what promises, what security guarantees and so on?

MR. MORRELL: I just -- that's one of the reasons I was late, I apologize. I was attending the secretary's meeting with the Polish Defense minister. I can report -- just want to give you a couple scene setters.

First of all, they met privately, the secretary and the minister of Defense did, for about a half an hour before sitting down to lunch with their advisers, which lasted probably another 45 minutes or so, Tom. I would describe their conversation in private and at the table as frank but productive. They had a discussion about a range of issues, whether it be the Polish government's plan to draw down forces in Iraq while plussing up forces in Afghanistan, to, of course, as you mentioned, missile defense, which probably took up the bulk of the conversation.

As you know, Poland is a long-standing, good ally of ours. We enjoy a special relationship with the Polish government and the Polish military. And it was -- the secretary conveyed our desire to continue such a relationship with them. This discussion was mostly focused on the fact that the new Polish government after taking office in November wanted to take some time to sort of review and assess what the previous government had done when it comes to negotiations on missile defense. They've now done that.

The Polish Defense minister is here, meeting yesterday with officials at the State Department; today here at Defense; I believe tomorrow in addition to some more defense-related conversations, they're going to be over at the White House for some NSC meetings.

But I think we are now at the point where we sort of -- they understand what the previous government has negotiated. They have some domestic concerns which they are trying to address, while at the same time we are trying to figure out how to work with them to continue to move forward on what we believe to be a program of vital importance not just for us but really for Europe.

And that's the key here, Tom. This is first and foremost -- putting a third site, putting these interceptors in Poland does far more to benefit Europe and our allies there than it does for us. And what we are trying to do is help people realize that this is not a unilateral negotiation by any means. This is not an issue between the Poles and the U.S. This is an issue for NATO. This deploying interceptors in Poland will provide NATO with the ability to protect itself from a missile threat virtually everybody recognizes exists today.

Q Geoff?

MR. MORRELL: Anything -- any follow-up, Tom?

Q Well, I guess I'm specifically wondering whether he laid out any new sort of demands or requirements for the U.S. to meet. When we left this last fall, they were sort of debating it. The government was thinking about taking it to parliament. The new government came in. As you said, we've heard some rather -- not pessimistic but some statements from Warsaw that they were going to slow down the process. So the --

MR. MORRELL: Yeah, and those statements, I think everybody would acknowledge, are not helpful. I mean, it's -- proceeding with this process in as expeditious a manner as possible is to the benefit of everyone, including the Poles.

I'm not going to speak about anything more specifically they laid on the table in terms of demands, although it's my understanding the Polish Defense minister may have been having a gathering of reporters after his meetings. So perhaps he will articulate them publicly.

I just think it's worth remembering that this -- that we've enjoyed a special relationship with the Poles for quite some time. In fact, you know, we were instrumental in them becoming members of NATO. They are the biggest beneficiary within Europe of defense aid. Nearly three-quarters of a billion dollars under the Bush administration has been provided to the Polish military in military aid. That far exceeds any other country in Europe. And because of that special relationship, we believe that we can overcome whatever differences may exist on this issue very quickly.

Yeah, on this?

Q On this.

MR. MORRELL: Yeah.

Q So now that they've done their assessment and the minister has told the secretary what their assessment is, what's the bottom- line impact on the timeline?

MR. MORRELL: The timeline -- our timeline is as soon as possible. And I think we think the Poles recognize that it is better to do this sooner rather than later, provided we can address some of their concerns that remain.

So we are working hard with our folks here in policy and some of the other technical experts to address whatever concerns they have.

I mean, I think it's worth remembering also that during the Riga summit of 2006, NATO collectively agreed that there is indeed a growing missile threat to Europe and that the alliance needs to move forward through research and development to fashion a missile defense system. So this is something that has already been agreed upon. And assuming we work this out in a timely fashion, it will be to everyone's benefit, not just the Poles and not just Europe. Down that line would be America, but this is primarily for our allies in Europe.

Q And what are those concerns that you're working to address?

MR. MORRELL: I -- you know, I think if -- if the Poles wish to articulate any concerns they have, and I take it they have done so publicly before, they can. I don't think it's for me to announce them from up here.

...
source: http://www.defenselink.mil/transcripts/transcript.aspx?transcriptid=4120

[SkyUS]

This is not an issue between the Poles and the U.S. This is an issue for NATO. This deploying interceptors in Poland will provide NATO with the ability to protect itself from a missile threat virtually everybody recognizes exists today.

Interesting, so the new American installation will be under NATO umbrella? Last time I have heard it was suppose to be a bilateral "deal" between Poland and USA?

And assuming we work this out in a timely fashion, it will be to everyone's benefit, not just the Poles and not just Europe. Down that line would be America, but this is primarily for our allies in Europe.

I think that the process concerning the base should be done as soon as possible, but Poland needs to make sure of its own national security. Right now Poland can't pro long the negotiations. What Poland needs to do is to reach a reasonable agreement, stand its ground and resolve this "issue" as soon as possible. Bush's gov't wants to set up the base, however with elections coming up this will probably change, so Poland needs to stand its ground and get this deal done as soon as possible.

source: http://www.defenselink.mil/transcripts/transcript.aspx?transcriptid=4120......................................

[InetWarrior]

[I](...) [I already have read comments somewhere on net about Poles being "whores" that demand more and more - This is an old theme and I do not pay attention to such things anymore...]



Mishka I think that this is not an insult. We should be offended only when they start to call us a "cheap whores" again...
Its nice to see that we start to be partner in that discussion and not only "subject".

[Mishka Zubov]

So now, after relatively clear communication from the American side, it's time for a Polish style communique!


A visit of Minister Bogdan Klich in USA
2008-01-16

16.01. Waszyngton/USA. Minister of National Defense Bogdan Klich is on working visit to USA.

The subject of talks are Polish-American military cooperation, withdrawal of Polish Military Contingent from Iraq and our greater engagement in ISAF operation in Afghanistan.

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On Tuesday, January 15, minister Bogdan Klich laid wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery. He has met at noon with Defense Secretary Robert Gates. The discussion concerned placements of anti-ballistic rockets in Poland and strengthening of Polish air defenses.

During a press conference after the meeting minister Bogdan Klich said that he has noticed greater than usual readiness to talks about an American aid for technical modernization of Polish Armed Forces: "The American side sees a possibility of a talk on a subject of its participation in the modernization process of Polish Armed Forces. The Americans are inclined to talk on a subject of a support for modernization (...)".[1] The minister also stressed that the aid talks are to pertain to strengthening of Polish Air Force.

Summarizing the meeting with the defense secretary Robert Gates, minister Klich stated: "one thing is clear from the talks: United States want continuation of strategic cooperation with Poland in the security area. Minister Gates and I confirmed our common will of continuation with this cooperation."[2]

During his visit to Congress Bogdan Klich talked with democrat Helen Tauscher, a chairman of a commission of Chamber of Representatives, who has assured that "a possible future democratic administration will be also interested in continuation of the anti-ballistic project and that the Americans are willing to discuss its participation in modernization of Polish army." The chairman was stressing several times that Poland must "effectively balance" effects of placement of anti-ballistic system on its territory.

...

On Wednesday the minister will be visiting the Naval Air Station at Norfork. In the afternoon he will meet with J. Jeffrey, a Presidential Assistant - Deputy National Advisor for Security, at the office of National Security Council.[3]

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source: http://www.mon.gov.pl/pl/artykul/3983
translated by MZ

[1] Yeah, I read it through several times and I still do not understand what the hell it means. The art of miscommunication has been flourishing so much in Poland that now nobody understands anyone anymore. Do the Americans want to chip in or not, and if yes - to what extent? Anything else is just an empty talk and wishful thinking of Mr. Klich.

[2]Oh boy, nothing changed in style from the times of "a friendly meeting with our Soviet comrades".

[3] Probably lost in translation. According to Whitehouse data, "Ambassador James Jeffrey is a Senior Advisor to the Secretary and Coordinator for Iraq, U.S. Department of State"

[Mishka Zubov]

Meeting at FOB Ghazni
by Marek Fiałka
Wednesday, January 16 2008

During the first decade of January a meeting with General Noor Mohammad, a general prosecutor of Ghazni province, has been organized in FOB Ghazni. Polish side was represented by MAJ Marek Fiałka, a commander of Battle Team "A".

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The meeting was regarding a current situation in Ghazni province, functioning of Polish soldiers and review of most dangerous places. Views have been exchanged on implementation of mandated tasks of Battle Team "A" soldiers and on attitude of local population towards them. The prosecutor stated that there are districts in Ghazni province that do not favor coalition forces. General Noor Mohammad presented a list of problems that the Afghan police faces daily and expressed a wish for the next meeting at his office.

Photo.: archive of Battle Team „A”
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=11167&Itemid=29
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Rosomaks for export
by z.l.
Wednesday, January 16 2008

Reprinted from: Rzeczpospolita, 16.1.2008, Rosomaki idą na eksport

Finnish Patria is going to buy five armored vehicles Rosomak from "Wojskowe Zakłady Mechaniczne" (WZM) on an order from United Arab Emirates (UAE). These are the first export orders at WZM. UAE army wants to test the vehicles and does not exclude extending the contract - learned "Rz". The details of the transaction are kept secret but Józef Jędruch from the management of the Siemianowice's company confirmed that the orders are to be implemented expressly. The Rosomak costs - depending on the equipment - from 1 top 2.5 million EUR.

The transaction is to be accounted for within the Finnish offset. The value of Patria's compensatory obligations reaches 0.5 billion EUR and the company had some troubles recently with implementing some of those projects.

Interest in Rosomaks is growing after the Afghanistan war experience. Patria has already obtained contract from Finland, RPA, Croatia and Slovenia. It plans a cooperation with Martin Lockheed in design of a vehicle for American Marines. WZM counts on the sales of Rosomak to Malaysia, where it already passed all required tests.

source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=11171&Itemid=46
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Sikorski to media: Please stop blabbing
[This is what Americans are asking for too]


A visit of Fried in Poland

One of the leading American politicians Daniel Fried begins a two day visit to Poland. A former USA ambassador to Poland, currently a deputy State Secretary for European affairs, he will be talking to Polish politicians about American system of anti-ballistic shield.

Mr. Fried is to meet today with minister of external affairs Radosław Sikorski. This is the only official meeting in the program of the American diplomat. But - according to Polish Radio - he will be unofficially talking to various people participating in Polish-American negotiations.

The visit of Daniel Fried in Poland is in connection to the latest comments of Polish politicians on the subject of anti-ballistic shield. According to unofficial informations, United States is becoming more an more impatient with protracted negotiations. Polish diplomats have been suggesting recently that they would like to wait with the final decision till Fall, after the Americans elect their new President. According to unofficial information from Polish Radio, Mr. Fried will be trying to convince Poles for speeding the negotiation tempo.

There is a press conference of Daniel Fried planned for tomorrow afternoon.
source: http://wiadomosci.onet.pl/1674472,11,1,1,,item.html
translated by MZ


Radosław Sikorski invited to Washington

Radosław Sikorski has been invited for talks with American State Secretary Condoleeza Rice on February 1 to Washington. Minister of external affairs has met today in Warsaw with former USA ambassador to Poland Daniel Fried. Speaking after the meeting Fried said that the Americans respect Poland's decision about withdrawal of Polish contingent from Iraq. "We understand it and respect it" - said the former ambassador. He added that the talk with Polish minister of defense [in Washington] was constructive.

Radosław Sikorski said that he noted a significant progress in talks regarding construction of the anti-ballistic shield in Poland. He added that he very gladly accepted the invitation to Washington. He appealed to media to keep greater restraint regarding commenting on negotiations about the shield. He said that we were entering now in decisive phase of talks. "These are very serious negotiations and there should not be any place for their over interpretation here" - added Sikorski.

source: http://fider.idg.pl/info.asp?j=1&za=1&id=17570372
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Patrol to Khayr Kot
by Krzysztof Wilewski
Thursday, January 17 2008

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There are 50 kilometers from FOB Sharana to Khayr Kot - a southernmost place under care of soldiers from the 1st platoon, Battle Team "Bravo", Polish Battle Group, stationed at that base. A patrol to Khayr Kot means many hours of driving over the wilderness - a true winter challenge due to impassable snowdrifts at some places.

Such was the January 14 patrol, made of two armored vehicles "Rosomak" and five HMMVWs, commanded by LT Wojciecha Kufliński. Besides patrolling their zone of responsibility their task was to meet with a chief of local police.

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During almost one hour meeting with the police chief the most important problems of his district, related to Taliban activity in that region, have been discussed. The chief was stressing that only regular humanitarian aid for local population may encourage it to fight against Taliban, whose only argument is intimidation.

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Photos: Krzysztof Wilewski
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=11195&Itemid=29
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

Electronic eyes
by Krzysztof Wilewski
Thursday, January 17 2008

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Night patrols are some of the most dangerous tasks facing our soldiers in Afghanistan. Modern technology help them to handle them safely. Thanks to electronic eyes - night vision devices - they can move in complete darkness. This is how they have surprised terrorists few times already.

January 15, 2140 hours. Pitch-black darkness in Sharana. Soldiers look at the clouded sky with concern. - Moon would be useful. "Nokto" works then very well. It won't work that well tonight - they complain. "Nokto" - "night" in Esperanto, from Latin "nocto" - of the night, is a short for "noctovision", "noktowizja" in Polish, a night vision device in plain English.

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During night patrol, when they drive with the lights turned off, they can only see anything thanks to electronics. But nobody is complaining about necessity of driving in darkness. - We are invisible to the enemy - thanks to it - and we have been surprising terrorists few times in turn - says one of the soldiers.

Drive by "nokto" has its own shortcomings too - as the soldiers from the 1st platoon, Battle Team "Bravo", have painfully learned during the night patrol on January 15/16 near Sra Khala. One of the armored vehicles "Rosomak" slid down from a narrow trail to a ditch and hung over a culvert. Fortunately another Rosomak immediately rushed with aid and few minutes later the immobilized vehicle was pulled back from the ditch.

Photos: Krzysztof Wilewski
source: http://www.redakcjawojskowa.pl/gazeta/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=11206&Itemid=29
translated by MZ

[Mishka Zubov]

This is one of the series of articles designed to soften Polish position in negotiation over the anti-ballistic shield in Poland. Polish side has its own good arguments, actually accepted by some of the American editorials (I missed a good link, but I'll try to find it later) - namely that Polish equipment has been used and depreciated in missions abroad, while there was not enough money for modernization of armed forces at home.

But the author of this article has good point about lack of sufficient support for domestic military industry from the Polish military planners.


Maintaining A Base
Trouble in Poland's defense industry.
by Reuben F. Johnson
01/17/2008 12:00:00 AM

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WZU Nr 2 - modified SA-8. Photo by Reuben F. Johnson.ONE OF THE MORE capable of the new NATO nations and one that possesses a rather robust defense industrial sector is Poland. During Soviet times, the Warsaw Pact state had a reputation for doing some of the better work on maintaining and sometimes even producing military hardware. Poland was one of the few Warsaw Pact nations outside of the USSR that designed and manufactured a complete weapons platform, in this case the helicopters that were built at the Polskie Zakłady Lotnicze (Polish Aviation Works or PZL).

Poland's armed forces now show all the signs and have taken all of the steps that one would expect a nation to initiate in order to integrate itself into the NATO alliance. It has taken on a number of western weapons platforms into its military so that the country is not completely dependent on Russia for support of its Soviet-era platforms. In the last decade Poland has acquired Leopard tanks from Germany and 48 new Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter aircraft from the United States, the last of which will be delivered in December of this year.

The Central European state has also acquired much of its new hardware at minimal cost. The Leopard II tanks were used models that the German Bundeswehr had in mothballs, so they were acquired at a bargain price. The Polish Air Force also acquired most of the East German MiG-29s that the
Luftwaffe of the re-united Germany was flying until the delivery of its first Eurofighters. At some expense these MiGs had been modernized by the German force to be completely NATO-compatible and had been brought up to operational standards consistent with the alliance's requirements, but were "sold" to the Poles at a symbolic price of one Euro.

But, the best deal may end up having come from the United States. The money to procure the F-16s was loaned to the Poles, and although there have been no official statements made on the matter, no one seems in any rush to collect the debt.

Now Poland is about to go back and ask the United States for another batch of weapons. Last week the recently-elected government in Warsaw announced that Poland would no longer consent to be a site for ten of the U.S. ballistic missile defense system interceptors unless Washington agreed at the same time to provide them with a number of short- and medium-range air defense systems, such as the Raytheon Patriot PAC-3 and Lockheed Martin THAAD (Terminal High-Altitude Air Defense). Polish officials say the interceptor sites make their country a bigger, high-value target and they want their air defenses bolstered accordingly.

"The presence of a U.S. military installation in Poland undoubtedly makes Polish airspace more vulnerable," said the Polish Defence Minister Bogdan Klich when interviewed by Reuters. "I speak about this in categorical terms because this is an essential part of Polish air space security."

Part of the motivation for demanding that the U.S. gift these advanced air defense systems to Poland is political. Placing the U.S. missile defense system on Polish soil has become widely unpopular in this country according to a number of opinion polls. (Those are opinion polls, as opposed to opinionated Poles.) The only way the government can justify taking this step to its population and cover itself politically is to show that they gave the U.S. what it wanted, but only after extracting a pound of flesh in return for the concession.

But, the other half of the equation is a combined desire to try and get as much out of the United States as possible. "One of the problems with this agreement in which they appear to ultimately be receiving these F-16s for free," said a U.S. aerospace industry official, "is that now this has become the standard that is now expected. Everyone--and not just the Poles, but other former Soviet bloc states and sometimes including some of our own U.S. armed forces--wants this 'Polish F-16 deal' where you can get something for nothing."

The casualties in all this may be Poland's rather capable defense industrial sector in the short-term and, in the long-term, the overall reputation and image of U.S.-made military hardware.

Air defense is a technology that Polish industry is well-versed in. Specifically, its major enterprises have shown a talent for upgrading their old, Soviet-era platforms by replacing all of the old-generation analogue components and traveling wave-guide tubes with solid-state digital technology. At the same time they have also integrated U.S. weapon systems onto these Russian platforms, creating what is a current-generation air defense unit at a fraction of the cost of a new one. The Wojskowe Zakłady Uzbrojenia Nr 2 (Military Armament Works Nr 2 or WZU Nr2), has been one of the leaders in this area. This factory is the only facility outside of the former USSR that retains the fully-licensed authority from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) in Russia to make any modifications they deem fit to any Russian-made model from
the SA-1 to the SA-8 series. The factory has used this license to create new-age versions of these Russian SAMs by replacing the older-technology Russian missiles with surface-launched air defense variants of either the Raytheon AIM-120 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM), that has an active-homing seeker or the AIM-7 Sea Sparrow with a semi-active seeker.

Either solution provides the user of this system with a capability far beyond that of the original Soviet desig