Poland has made significant strides in modernizing its military capabilities with the official acquisition of its first 15 Borsuk infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs). This milestone is part of a comprehensive initiative aimed at bolstering the Polish Armed Forces, which involves the procurement of a total of 111 Borsuk IFVs through a contract valued at 6.57 billion Polish zloty (approximately $1.8 billion). The deliveries are scheduled to be completed by 2029.
The Borsuk IFV, developed and manufactured by Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa and Huta Stalowa Wola, features an amphibious tracked design that is tailored for infantry transport and protection against small arms, anti-tank weapons, and improvised explosive devices. This advanced vehicle is expected to play a crucial role not only on the battlefield but also in operational logistics and training for soldiers.
In addition to the delivery of the initial units, the program encompasses logistics support and training to ensure that personnel are adept at utilizing the new technology effectively. Future expansions of the Borsuk line are already planned, with proposals for command vehicles and specialized variants designed for chemical operations.
The introduction of the Borsuk IFVs is a strategic move to replace aging military equipment and enhance Poland’s operational readiness, especially along its eastern border. Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, the Minister of National Defence, emphasized the urgency of developing future versions and defense solutions, stating that the timeline for such advancements should be accelerated due to current security demands.
The Borsuk’s design reflects modern trends in infantry fighting vehicles, focusing on versatility, survivability, and the ability to operate alongside networked forces. Its amphibious capabilities allow for swift river crossings and operations in difficult terrains without the dependency on bridges or ferries, which is essential for both conventional and hybrid warfare scenarios.
Armament-wise, the Borsuk is equipped with a 30mm Mk.44S Bushmaster cannon, a twin Spike anti-tank missile launcher, and a 7.62mm UKM-2000C coaxial machine gun, all housed within a remotely operated ZSSW-30 turret. This advanced turret system enables precise engagement at various ranges and enhances the vehicle’s effectiveness in anti-armor operations.
With these capabilities, the Borsuk IFV is expected to significantly bolster Poland’s ground forces, showing a commitment to modernizing its military infrastructure and increasing its defensive posture in the region.
