Poland’s Land Forces have officially introduced the formidable K2 Black Panther main battle tanks during an international military exercise held in Slovakia. This significant milestone was confirmed by the service’s 9th Braniewo Armored Cavalry Brigade, one of the primary operators of this newly acquired fleet.
As part of a modernization initiative announced in July 2022, Poland has successfully acquired approximately 110 units of the K2 Black Panther from South Korean manufacturer Hyundai Rotem. The first shipment of 10 tanks arrived three months later, along with 29 K9 Thunder howitzers, which were also part of the same modernization effort. According to reports from local news agency ZBIAM, Poland is set to receive an additional 70 tanks as part of a total order of 180 units later this year.
The K2 Black Panthers will be distributed among several units, including the 9th Braniewska Armored Cavalry Brigade, the 15th Gieżycka Mechanized Brigade, and the 20th Bartoszycka Mechanized Brigade, all of which fall under the 16th Pomeranian Infantry Division. A small number of these vehicles were additionally transferred to the Army Training Center in Poznań last year to aid in training preparation for the crews.
Earlier in March, Poland announced plans to double its acquisition of K2 tanks from South Korea, which would enhance its heavy military capabilities even further. This initiative could extend shipments of these advanced tracked platforms over the next four years, although the timeline may accelerate if Poland advances its plans for establishing a domestic production facility dedicated to manufacturing these systems.
The K2 Black Panther, which made its debut in the early 2010s, integrates fourth-generation technology designed for the South Korean Army. It boasts advanced armaments, including a 120-millimeter smoothbore cannon, a 12.7-millimeter heavy machine gun, and a 7.62-millimeter NATO-standard support gun. The tank’s armor combines steel and silicon carbide ceramic sheets, providing robust protection.
Dimensions-wise, the K2 measures 11 meters (36 feet) long and has a weight of 55 tons (121,254 pounds), operated by a three-man crew. Powered by a 1,500 horsepower engine, it features a six-speed transmission that allows for a top speed of 70 kilometers (43 miles) per hour and an operational range of 450 kilometers (280 miles).
The K2 Black Panther represents a significant advancement in Poland’s military capabilities and reflects the country’s ongoing commitment to modernizing its armed forces in response to evolving security dynamics in the region.
