Poland has held its largest-ever military parade in Warsaw, showcasing the country’s growing military capabilities amid Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.

Axar.az reports, citing TVP World, that the Armed Forces Day parade featured nearly 2,000 Polish troops, more than 300 military vehicles and over 60 aircraft, including the first US-made F-35 fighter jets delivered to Poland. Military personnel from several allied countries also took part.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk said Poland wants to avoid war but must remain strong and prepared.

“Only those who are strong, well-prepared, truly independent and sovereign will avoid war,” Tusk said.

President Karol Nawrocki said Poland “knows perfectly well the price paid for independence and freedom,” stressing that national security should take precedence over political divisions.

“Today, a falling missile will not ask whether someone votes for one political party or another… Let’s not forget that we are one nation,” Nawrocki said.

Poland has significantly increased defense spending and accelerated military modernization in response to the security threat posed by Russia. The country spent around 4.7% of GDP on defense in 2025 and plans to raise spending to 5% this year.