On 15 August, Hel – usually a magnet for tourists in search of beaches and sea breezes – became the focal point of Poland’s first-ever Naval Parade marking Armed Forces Day. And it was a sight to behold. From early morning, crowds gathered on the peninsula. Residents and visitors from across the country filled the beaches and promenades to ensure they would not miss a moment.
At noon sharp, the waters of the Gulf of Gdańsk welcomed the first ships of the Polish Navy. Leading the formation was the submarine ORP Orzeł, one of the most recognisable symbols of Poland’s fleet. Following closely were the missile frigates ORP Gen. K. Pułaski and ORP Gen. T. Kościuszko, both regular participants in NATO missions. Also present was the corvette ORP Kaszub – the only vessel of its class in Polish service – and the modern minehunter ORP Mewa, the pride of the Kormoran II program.
Spectators then admired a procession of minesweepers, rescue vessels, and hydrographic ships, each representing a vital element of the Navy’s daily work. The sight of twenty ships sailing in formation, with their crews lined up in ceremonial parade order, left a lasting impression. The display was crowned by red-and-white smoke trails rising above the final ships, a symbolic gesture for this important national holiday.
The parade was not limited to the sea. Over Hel, helicopters and aircraft of the Naval Aviation Brigade flew past – including W-3 Anakonda search-and-rescue helicopters, Mi-17 transports, and M28 Bryza patrol aircraft, long a cornerstone of Baltic maritime security.
While eyes were drawn to the sea and sky, the land component also attracted crowds. In the fishing port, selected vessels – including ORP Mewa – were opened to the public. For many, it was a rare chance to step aboard and speak directly with sailors about their daily service.
Meanwhile, on the Nadmorski Boulevard, a military picnic created a festive atmosphere. Visitors enjoyed concerts by a military band, equipment displays, and traditional soldiers’ pea soup, while children played in educational zones. Adults, in turn, could see modern weaponry up close and learn more about the realities of military life.
The Naval Parade 2025 represented more than just the strength and modernity of the Polish Navy. The sea – ever-present in Poland’s history – became a symbol of unity and national pride. For a few hours, Hel, typically alive with tourism, transformed into the centre of patriotic celebration, demonstrating that Poland can honour its past while embracing a modern vision of security and allied cooperation within NATO.
Photo: Michał Wajnchold (FoxTwo.pl) / zoom.mon.gov.pl
Photo: MON / flickr
This article was prepared as part of the public task implemented under the Government Program for the Development of Civic Organisations 2018–2030: “Safe Poland of Tomorrow – Expanding the Mission of the Alioth Foundation.”
