Poland to produce K2 Black Panther tanks following South Korea deal

The Polish Ministry of Defence has confirmed the commencement of domestic production of 180 K2 tanks in Poland for service in the Polish Army, following successful talks with a South Korean delegation.

This initiative is part of an executive contract for 180 K2 tanks, which is expected to be signed during the Kielce defence industry exposition.

The meeting between Deputy Prime Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz and South Korean Defence Minister Shin Won-sik took place on June 20 2024, in Pruszków.

The K2 Black Panther, developed by Hyundai Rotem, is an advanced main battle tanks. It features a 120mm L/55 smoothbore gun, and both a 12.7mm heavy machine gun and a 7.62mm machine gun. For protection, it includes composite armour, Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA), and an active protection system to counter anti-tank threats.

The Black Panther’s 1,500hp MT 833 diesel engine allows it to reach speeds of up to 70km/h with a range of 450km. The tank, operated by a crew of three, is equipped with advanced targeting, battlefield management, and NBC protection systems.

Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasised the strategic importance of cooperation with South Korea, citing existing deliveries of FA-50 aircraft, Chunmoo launchers, K9 howitzers, and K2 tanks. He underscored the significance of localising production within Poland, aligning with the government’s pledge that 50% of production and purchases for the Polish Armed Forces will occur domestically.

The discussions covered various aspects, including cooperation in the military sphere, defence, and armaments industry. They co-chaired a meeting of the joint ministerial committee on bilateral cooperation in these fields, discussing the stabilisation activities on the Korean Peninsula and prospects for developing military relations between the two countries.

Kosiniak-Kamysz expressed satisfaction with the South Korean Minister’s commitment to resolve any issues promptly. This assurance aligns with Poland’s goal of ensuring the feasibility and timeliness of the contracts and the transfer of technology to Poland.

Deputy Minister Paweł Bejda noted that the discussions also focused on financing military equipment purchased from South Korea for the Polish Armed Forces and presenting the Polish armament industry’s offerings to the Korean side. This move reflects Poland’s broader strategy of integrating domestic production capabilities with international cooperation.

According to the Polish Ministry of National Defence, the deal with South Korean firms Hyundai Rotem and Hanwha Defense includes the delivery of 180 K2 Black Panther tanks and 212 K9A1 self-propelled howitzers, along with ammunition, training, and logistics support.

Defence Minister Mariusz Błaszczak highlighted the importance of quick deliveries and the large-scale transfer of technology to Poland. Initial deliveries include ten K2 tanks and 24 K9 howitzers, expected to arrive later this year, with Polish soldiers set to train in Korea on the new equipment starting in October 2024.

The latest contracts build on previously signed framework agreements between Poland and South Korea, with deliveries of K2 tanks and K9 howitzers scheduled between 2022 and 2026.