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Poland inks deals for armored vehicles

14.08.2023 18:00
The Polish government has finalized agreements for the acquisition of three distinct categories of armored vehicles, the country’s defense minister has announced.
Polands Rosomak wheeled armored personnel carrier.
Poland's Rosomak wheeled armored personnel carrier.Photo: PAP/Darek Delmanowicz

Defense Minister Mariusz Błaszczak greenlit the trio of contracts on Monday, sealing the deals with the state-owned Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), hailing them collectively as "highly consequential." The contracts involve the procurement of 700 heavy infantry fighting vehicles, wheeled armored personnel carriers, and light reconnaissance vehicles.

Błaszczak underscored the centrality of the heavy infantry fighting vehicle, revealing that it will be constructed around the AHS Krab chassis and feature an unmanned turret. Poland’s Armament Agency (AU) has projected the initial consignments for the Polish Armed Forces to materialize by 2025.

The second deal entails the purchase of KTO Rosomak wheeled armored personnel carriers. Błaszczak stated that the army has "requisitioned nearly 400 units, slated for rapid production at the Rosomak facility."

Valued at approximately PLN 1.2 billion (EUR 270 million) before taxes, this 4x4 light reconnaissance vehicle contract also incorporates provisions for domestic industrial capacity growth. Minister Błaszczak highlighted this, stating it "lays the groundwork for establishing local manufacturing, service, and repair capabilities."

Initial shipments of the first tranche of vehicles are anticipated to commence as early as next year.

(jh)

Source: PAP