Brunssum, The Netherlands – Dzielny Dzik 2025, a tactical exercise running from 9-23 May involving approximately 3,500 soldiers from Polish military units, Allied air forces, NATO Battle Group Poland and international partners including Lithuania, Sweden, and the Czech Republic, concluded today Poland’s Drawsko Pomorskie Training Area.
The main objective of the exercise was to enhance combat readiness, bolster the defence capabilities of countries in the region, and foster seamless cooperation between Allied forces.
At the heart of Dzielny Dzik 2025 lied the division-level tactical drill known as Brave Boar 25, which represents the most significant undertaking by the Polish 16th Mechanised Division this year. More than 600 pieces of combat and logistical equipment were in use, with operations extending beyond the Land Forces Training Centre in Orzysz to various locations across the Warmińsko-Mazurskie Voivodeship.
During the exercise, troops have executed a series of critical military operations. These include: the coordinated assault and capture of enemy-held buildings in exposed terrain with support from Polish and Swedish aviation; medical evacuations by land and air; evacuation of damaged equipment; and the defence and consolidation of secured zones. These complex manoeuvres were aimed at refining the rapid response capabilities and interoperability of NATO forces. Notably, ground troops from Romania, the Czech Republic, Lithuania, and the United States have also played vital roles.
The high-profile exercise was observed by Andrzej Duda, President of the Republic of Poland; Gitanas Nausėda, President of the Republic of Lithuania; and the Commander-in-Chief of the Polish Armed Forces.
From NATO’s perspective, exercises like Dzielny Dzik 2025 are fundamental to preserving peace and security across the Alliance’s eastern flank. They provide a realistic environment to practice joint command, test communication systems, and strengthen the integrated force posture essential for deterring aggression. The exercise reflects NATO’s core principle of collective defence and reinforces its unwavering commitment to defend every inch of Allied territory.