Organization and participation in the humanitarian mission in Africa of the Polish Relief Helicopter Squadron in Ethiopia in 1985–1987

Abstract

In 1985, the Polish political and military authorities organized a humanitarian mission to Ethiopia. The Polish Humanitarian Aviation Squadron in Ethiopia, which was formed on the basis of the 37th Air Transport Helicopter Regiment from Łęczyca, took part in the mission. The aviation squadron was a separate military contingent of the Air Force of the Armed Forces of the Poland, which included three Mi-8T helicopters and military engineering and aviation personnel. Ethiopia was in a difficult economic and political situation caused by ongoing war and internal conflicts as well as drought and famine. The air squadron carried out the mission of providing humanitarian aid to the population. The tasks included transporting and distributing food and medical supplies over long distances in mountainous regions and resettling the population to safe places. The turning point of the presented issues is marked by the years 1984-1987. The first date determines the beginning of the mission and is related to the first decisions of the state authorities of Poland regarding political cooperation with Ethiopia and organizing activities to provide humanitarian assistance to the population of this country. The date of 1987 ends the period of humanitarian and technical support provided by Polish soldier pilots in Ethiopia. The issues presented in the article focus on the following thesis: The PHAS mission provided help to the Ethiopian population threatened by war and famine in Ethiopia.