Anti-tank trenches and drone defenses: Poland strengthens the border with Ukraine
New positions are being built near three checkpoints
Poland is strengthening engineering protection of its eastern border under the “Eastern Shield” program. Near checkpoints with Ukraine, the military is installing protective structures and creating observation and security posts.
The General Command of the Branches of the Polish Armed Forces told the Focus publication about the works. Engineering support to the Polish Border Guard is being provided by servicemembers of the 4th and 18th Sapper Regiments.
Fortifications are being set up near the following border crossings:
- Dorohusk — Yagodyn;
- Medyka — Shehyni;
- Korczowa — Krakovets.
Poland emphasizes that the engineering works will not affect the established order of operation of these border crossings.
The “Eastern Shield” program envisages creating a comprehensive defensive system along almost 700 km of Poland’s eastern border. Approximately 10 billion zlotys are allocated for its implementation during 2024–2028.
The project is not limited to building fortifications. The defensive system is to include:
- anti-tank ditches and other engineering obstacles;
- surveillance and detection systems;
- shelters and storage facilities;
- logistics facilities;
- counter-drone protection systems;
- reinforced roads and bridges.
For rapid construction of barriers and protected positions, the military uses HESCO Bastion. These are metal modules with geotextile that are filled with soil after installation.
In July 2026, Poland also formed the Border Defense Component, which includes four brigades. Among their tasks are working on the “Eastern Shield” infrastructure, setting up fortifications, and coordinating with the border guards.
