Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasised the strategic importance of protecting the Baltic Sea amid heightened regional tensions.
“Today’s celebrations are a special moment to recognise those who safeguard Poland’s security at sea every day.
The Polish Navy is at the centre of our efforts to strengthen national defence. We are investing in new ships, weapon systems, and modern technologies to help sailors carry out their missions more effectively,” he said.
The minister also confirmed a special allowance of 180 PLN (€42.50) for each day naval personnel spend at sea on missions of six hours or longer, including divers operating in both sea and inland waters.
Below is the live stream provided via the Polish Ministry of Defence's YouTube channel
Honouring the Fallen
On the eve of the celebrations, Kosiniak-Kamysz paid tribute to sailors who lost their lives in service at the monument “To Those Who Did Not Return from the Sea” in Świnoujście.
The politician described the site as a symbolic reminder of courage and dedication across generations of Polish naval personnel.
The ORKA submarine programme and naval honours
This year’s celebrations also highlighted the ORKA programme, under which Swedish company Saab will build and supply submarines to Poland.
Photo: PAP/Jerzy Muszyński
Kosiniak-Kamysz called the initiative transformative for the country’s naval capabilities, strengthening technical skills, industrial capacity, and cooperation with Sweden.
“There is no secure Baltic without the Polish Navy,” he said, underlining its role in protecting infrastructure and maintaining trade routes.
Officers who demonstrated exceptional service received state and defence ministry honours.
General Marek Sokołowski, Commander-in-Chief of the Polish Armed Forces, presented ceremonial swords, while Vice Admiral Jarosław Ziemiański awarded ship command certificates.
Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz (3rd from right), with Jarosław Ziemiański on his right and Marek Sokołowski on his left (photo: PAP/Jerzy Muszyński)
Kosiniak-Kamysz concluded the ceremony by expressing his gratitude to all naval personnel, praising their skills, commitment, and dedication to the homeland.
Photo: PAP/Jerzy Muszyński
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Source: MON/X/@KosiniakKamysz