Counter-terrorism exercise secures LNG Terminal in Świnoujście

Simulated assault on hostile vessel

The central scenario focused on Poland’s LNG terminal – a strategic energy facility ensuring the country’s independence from Russian gas supplies. Special forces conducted a coordinated assault on a vessel blocking the fairway leading to the terminal.

The operation included boarding manoeuvres from RIB fast craft, helicopter insertions from a Police S-70i Black Hawk, and simultaneous deployment of assault teams onto the quay to retake control of port facilities. Specially trained service dogs supported the action, providing additional operational capabilities and realism.

Protection against emerging threats

The exercise, designed to enhance inter-agency cooperation, also tested rapid response capabilities against modern threats, including the use of drones. Minister of Interior and Administration Marcin Kierwiński, who observed the action at the terminal, highlighted the growing importance of such training:

- In the context of events beyond our eastern border, the September drone attack, and incidents faced by our EU and NATO partners – such as in Copenhagen – we see that terrorist threats, especially those involving drones, are constantly increasing. These incidents are inspired by Russian intelligence services. This is why joint training and cooperation between services are so crucial. Our counter-terrorists are a world-class elite – outstanding professionals who safeguard our security every day, said Minister Kierwiński.

The Minister further stressed the strategic role of the LNG terminal:

- The purpose of these exercises, with the participation of nearly one hundred officers from the Police, Border Guard and Military Police, is to ensure effective protection of critical infrastructure. They are taking place at a unique location – Poland’s LNG terminal – a strategic investment requiring special protection.

Strengthening maritime security

As part of the training, forces refined boarding techniques for various vessel types, including passenger ferries, and practised helicopter-borne insertions. The exercise also validated coordination protocols between maritime, airborne and land-based units, ensuring they can respond simultaneously to multi-domain threats.

Poland’s security agencies continue to invest in advanced systems for the detection, interception and neutralisation of unmanned aerial vehicles. The integration of such systems into maritime security operations reflects lessons drawn from recent incidents across Europe, underlining the necessity of resilient infrastructure defence.