The Influence of Contemporary Geopolitical Changes on the Military Potential of the Central European Countries

Abstract

The geopolitical transformations in Europe caused not only far-reaching changes in the political, territorial, economic and social aspects of the continent but also heavily influenced defence doctrines and military potential in all countries concerned. The analyses of contemporary geopolitical and geostrategic situation in Central Europe shows that Poland does not match some of its neighbours as regards the military potential and basic arsenal. It seems that the reductions in Polish army are steps in a right direction but it must be coupled with increase in quality and quantity of modern armaments. Contemporary armed conflicts show that the technical equipment and troops’ training are main factors of military power rather than the number of troops. The NATO membership is a warrant of state’s security. Accession of new members is in Poland’s interest. It would not balance the military potentials of Central-European countries, nevertheless it would improve geopolitical situation of both the NATO and Poland. Notwithstanding several positive consequences, the accession of central and eastern-European countries to the NATO and the European Union will not solve by itself geopolitical problems in this part of the world.