THE ROLE OF STANAG TESTING IN STRENGTHENING INTEROPERABILITY OF THE POLISH ARMED FORCES WITHIN NATO FORCES

Abstract

In recent years, scientific and technological advances have changed the modern battlefield, giving rise to new weapons systems and battle strategies. Apart from the challenges posed by new means and methods of warfare, soldiers are faced with an increasing need to rely on their language skills while joining multinational operations. To succeed in an international military environment, bridging the language gap is a must since it contributes to building and strengthening interoperability with NATO forces. The following article is intended to discuss the role of STANAG tests in developing language competence of Polish soldiers as reflected in the language training framework programme for the Polish military, with a focus on the speaking ability. Most importantly, the article highlights the contribution of language testing according to STANAG 6001 to developing interoperability with the Allies, presenting the main phases of the process. In the final part, the authoress attempts to determine to what extent this contribution is really made.