Poland has recently placed an order for 12 command vehicles based on the KTO Rosomak wheeled armored personnel carrier (APC). This acquisition is aimed at providing crucial support to Poland’s formidable fleet of 250 M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 main battle tanks (MBTs). The Polish Armaments Agency officially announced the contract, valued at PLN 268 million (USD 67.1 million), on December 27, 2023. Deliveries of these command vehicles are expected to take place between 2025 and 2026. The KTO Rosomak, known as ‘The Wolverine,’ is an 8×8 multi-role military vehicle manufactured by Rosomak S.A., a key player in the Polish Armaments Group. This innovative APC is a licensed variant of the Finnish Patria AMV, featuring a modular design that facilitates the integration of various turrets, weapons, sensors, and communication systems on a single chassis.
Designed with a focus on adaptability and versatility, the Rosomak has become a cornerstone in the modernization of the Polish Army’s armored vehicle fleet. Initially ordered in 2002 to replace aging SKOT 8×8 armored personnel carriers and BWP-1 tracked infantry fighting vehicles, the Rosomak has proven its effectiveness over the years. The Polish Ministry of Defense ordered a total of 690 vehicles, with deliveries commencing in 2004 and concluding in 2013.The newly commissioned command vehicles are set to operate at the battalion level and will be equipped with advanced internal communication subsystems and other essential communication equipment. This ensures the secure exchange of classified information, addressing the evolving needs of modern warfare scenarios.
One notable feature of the KTO Rosomak is its exceptional mine protection, capable of withstanding explosions of up to 10 kilograms (22 lb) TNT. The vehicle’s frontal arc boasts protection levels of up to 30 mm APFSDS, emphasizing its resilience on the battlefield. The hydropneumatic suspension, capable of adjusting each wheel individually, provides unparalleled mobility, combining speed, agility, and crew comfort in rough terrains. The significance of this acquisition extends beyond Poland’s borders. In 2023, 200 Polish Rosomak armored vehicles were reportedly delivered to Ukraine to aid in defense against the Russian invasion, highlighting the vehicle’s role in regional security and cooperation. The integration of these new command vehicles will undoubtedly strengthen its armored capabilities, offering enhanced coordination and communication support for the formidable M1A2 Abrams MBTs on the battlefield.
Poland has bought 250 M1A2 SEP v3 main battle tanks. Production is set to finish by 2024, and delivery in early 2025. After the donation of over 200 Polish T-72 tanks to Ukraine, an agreement between the Polish and American governments was signed to buy 116 ex-U.S. M1A1s. Delivery is expected to start in 2022. 7 loaned training tanks have already been delivered to Poland as of July 2022. The total purchase cost with support vehicles, crew training, and large supply of ammunition will cost PLN 23.3 billion (approximately $6 billion). They are to supplement 247 Leopard 2PL main battle tanks as well as older T-72 and PT-91 tanks. 28 M1A2 SEPv2 tanks were leased in July 2022 to train crews until deliveries begin. The first 14 of the 116 M1A1s ordered arrived on 28 June 2023. A further 26 were delievered in November 2023.
