At the Security Conference in Plzeň, Colonel Jiří Ignác Laňka, head of the office of the director of the Rapid Deployment Unit of the Czech Police, spoke. In an interview with CZ DEFENCE, he spoke not only about the role of this elite police unit within the national security system, but also about a troubling trend that, in his view, is evident across virtually all security agencies – a gradual decline in the physical and mental readiness of the younger generation.

Video: Col. Jiří Ignác Laňka: A Society’s Resilience Begins with Prepared Citizens / CZ DEFENCE

Although the Rapid Deployment Unit is a specialized unit with very specific tasks, according to Colonel Laňka, it too can contribute to strengthening society’s resilience. One way to do this is through large-scale exercises that also involve civilians, particularly school students. These activities include not only practicing how to respond to crisis situations but also educating the public on how to behave properly during emergencies. “Participants learn how to react in a crisis situation, what to do, and, conversely, what to avoid. They can then directly put this knowledge to the test during the exercises, which significantly increases the likelihood that they will remember it and use it when necessary,” explained Laňka.

In addition to training activities, members of the Rapid Deployment Unit occasionally participate in lectures for schools or professional audiences. However, given the unit’s heavy workload, such educational events cannot be a regular part of their activities. The priority remains the fulfillment of operational tasks both at home and abroad.

A significant portion of the interview focused on the personnel situation. And it was here that one of the most striking statements of the entire discussion was made. According to Colonel Laňka, the quality of applicants for service in the elite unit has been declining over the long term. “I have to say that it’s going downhill. Year after year, the quality of the young people who apply to join us is decreasing,” he stated candidly. In his view, this is not due to a single specific cause, but rather to a combination of various social factors. He believes that the current young generation is not inherently worse than previous generations; however, their lifestyle and the environment in which they grow up have a significant impact on their physical and mental readiness.

Those interested in serving with the Rapid Deployment Unit come primarily from the ranks of the Czech Police, but members of other security forces – such as the Fire and Rescue Service, the Prison Service, or the Czech Army – are also eligible to apply. Candidates must meet strict medical requirements, undergo rigorous physical examinations and psychological tests, and subsequently pass the well-known selection process, which police officers nicknamed “Hell Week.”

In the area of technology, Colonel Laňka acknowledged that even elite police units cannot ignore rapid technological developments. Modern technology, robotic systems, and elements of artificial intelligence are gradually becoming part of the work of law enforcement agencies. Nevertheless, he emphasized that the human element remains crucial. “For us, it’s still about the officer on the ground, wearing a vest, a helmet, and carrying a service weapon. That’s still the foundation,” said Col. Laňka. According to him, technology is an important support tool, but it cannot replace a well-trained and mentally resilient operator.

At the end of the interview, Colonel Laňka returned to the main theme of the Pilsen conference – security as a shared responsibility of both the state and its citizens. He praised the importance of such professional events, which help spark public debate on security threats and society’s preparedness.

“Security is a matter for all of us, and we need to talk about it truthfully, without embellishment, and openly. Otherwise, we’ll just be lying to ourselves,” emphasized the head of the Rapid Deployment Unit of the Czech Police, who believes that such conferences make an important contribution to building a more resilient society that recognizes its own role in ensuring national security.