Borsuk Infantry Fighting Vehicles: Poland’s Modernization Plan
Poland has officially signed a deal to acquire 111 Borsuk infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) for a total cost of around 6.57 billion Polish zloty, which equates to approximately $1.7 billion. This significant contract was established with Polish defense manufacturers, Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa and Huta Stalowa Wola. The agreement not only includes the procurement of the vehicles but also encompasses training, testing, logistics support, and the creation of technical documentation essential for serial production. Deliveries of the Borsuk IFVs are set to commence later this year and will continue through to 2029.
The Polish armament agency has indicated that the Borsuk IFV is designed to meet both current and future requirements of Polish mechanized troops. It is positioned to become a cornerstone solution for the operational needs of the Polish Armed Forces in the years to come. This modernization effort is crucial as the military seeks to enhance its capabilities to face emerging challenges.
Advanced Features of the Borsuk IFV
The Borsuk IFV boasts a state-of-the-art design built on a versatile modular tracked platform. Notably, it features the ZSSW-30, a remotely-operated turret system that merges sophisticated firepower with the advantages of remote operation. This design significantly enhances crew safety, especially in high-threat environments. Within the vehicle, a crew of three—comprising a commander, a weapons operator, and a driver—works alongside a capacity to transport up to six infantry soldiers, providing both mobility and fire support.
In addition to its primary role as a troop transport, the Borsuk IFV is equipped with onboard weaponry intended to augment the firepower of infantry units. Such capabilities ensure that the vehicle not only serves as a means of transport but also as a formidable asset in combat situations, reinforcing the effectiveness of ground operations.
Strengthening Poland’s Armed Forces Capabilities
Warsaw is committed to enhancing its armored capabilities through a comprehensive long-term acquisition strategy. The introduction of the Borsuk IFV is part of a broader initiative aimed at modernizing and reinforcing the defense strength of the Polish Armed Forces. This move comes as a replacement for older post-Soviet BWP-1 vehicles, underlining the urgency to strengthen Poland’s military defense capabilities in the shortest time frame possible.
The current agreement is an extension of a framework contract signed in 2023, which outlines a phased approach to the procurement of a total of 1,400 vehicles. The acquisition plan includes various specially designed variants intended for different operational roles. These specialized vehicles encompass ŻUK reconnaissance transporters, OSET command vehicles, GOTEM medical evacuation vehicles, GEKON technical support vehicles, and ARES chemical reconnaissance vehicles, ensuring that the Polish military is well-equipped to handle a diverse range of missions.
