The Polish Ministry of Defense has announced three new contracts in collaboration with the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), signaling a significant step towards the nation's defense modernization efforts. As reported by Sarbaz.kz with reference to defence24pl, these agreements encompass the procurement of approximately 400 Light Reconnaissance Vehicles (LRV), along with framework contracts for Heavy Infantry Fighting Vehicles (HIFV) and new Wheeled Armored Transporters.
These contracts are integral components of Poland's substantial defense expenditures over the past two years, aimed at upgrading its Armed Forces. Among the recent acquisitions are Abrams tanks, Apache combat helicopters, HIMARS rocket systems from the United States, South Korean K2 tanks, Chunmoo rocket launchers, self-propelled howitzers K9, and FA-50 fighter aircraft.
Light Reconnaissance Vehicles (LRV)
The first contract, jointly signed by PGZ and Rosomak consortium, outlines the delivery of approximately 400 all-wheel-drive LRVs, at an approximate cost of 1.2 billion Polish zlotys (equivalent to $290 million USD). The delivery timeline spans from 2024 to 2030.
Polish Minister of Defense Mariusz Błaszczak expressed satisfaction with the LRV project, highlighting the rapid production capabilities at the Rosomak factory in Poland. The LRV, based on the South Korean KIA KLTV platform, has been tailored to meet the requirements of the Polish Armed Forces. The Ministry of Defense intends to refine the design based on feedback from Polish military personnel.
Heavy Infantry Fighting Vehicles (HIFV)
The PGZ consortium, in partnership with Huta Stalowa Wola, has concluded the second framework contract for the delivery of Heavy Infantry Fighting Vehicles, designated as Ciężki Bojowy Wóz Piechoty (CBWP). This contract encompasses various configurations of the CBWP.
Among these configurations, one includes the integration of the indigenous remotely operated ZSSW-30 turret system, developed collaboratively by HSW and WB Electronics. The primary armament of ZSSW-30 is the 30mm automatic cannon Bushmaster Mk.44S, equipped with five types of ammunition, including programmable rounds. This cannon is complemented by a modified 7.62mm machine gun UKM-2000S, mounted on the turret, and paired anti-tank guided missile launchers. While the current configuration features Spike-LR anti-tank missile launchers, the integration of Javelin ATGMs is under consideration for the future.
Designed to accommodate a three-person crew and transport eight soldiers, the vehicle provides all-weather, day and night fire support for infantry. The primary function of the CBWP involves engaging both armored and unarmored targets, neutralizing personnel, cover, and field fortifications in direct combat scenarios. Noteworthy features include enhanced ballistic and anti-mine protection, as well as reliable traction characteristics.
Wheeled Armored Transporters (NKTO)
The third contract, no less significant, pertains to the procurement of new Wheeled Armored Transporters (NKTO) scheduled for delivery between 2028 and 2035. The government anticipates acquiring several hundred units and potentially up to a thousand NKTOs, configured for combat operations, equipped with remotely operated weapon systems, and inclusive of comprehensive logistical and training packages.
NKTO represents another indigenous development, similar to the NBPWP Borsuk, and is conceived from the ground up utilizing the experience and capabilities of the Polish defense industry.
Błaszczak emphasized the intent to overcome limitations associated with the Rosomak APC licensing agreement, asserting that the new NKTO project possesses export potential. While primarily catering to the needs of the Polish Armed Forces, efforts are made to ensure its viability in global markets.
The contract stipulates that the company will establish facilities for NKTO development and production, maintain technological and organizational processes to ensure seamless transporter deliveries, and oversee technical servicing, repairs, and factory-level support through spare parts supply.
The implementation of this framework contract for vehicle delivery will subsequently lead to an agreement for experimental and design work, facilitating the acquisition of competencies and ideas necessary for domestic NKTO production. This agreement also encompasses integration with the ZSSW-30 and ZSMU systems, the latter of which will be developed as part of the aforementioned projects.
