The Polish Army has ordered 11 more Wolverine armored personnel carriers for 144 million zlotych ($30.8 million), with delivery expected between 2024 and 2025.
In 2018, the Polish Armed Forces already received 33 Wolverine vehicles following a June 2014 deal valued at 233.5 million zlotych ($50 million).
Wolverine WRT
The 8.3-meter (27 feet) Wolverine is equipped with a remote-controlled armament module and a 7.62-meter (25 feet) machine gun, allowing for enhanced observation and self-defense capabilities.
“[The Wolverine] has all the advantages typical of KTO ROSOMAK vehicles, such as high mobility, buoyancy, transport possibilities and a high degree of protection,” the developer said.
The vehicle has a maximum speed of 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour and a maximum swimming speed of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) per hour, making it suitable for various missions.
The specialized armored vehicle also features diagnostic and maintenance equipment, evacuation and rescue equipment, an on-board generator set, welding units, sets for quick electrical and mechanical repairs, and a vehicle self-covering system.
Poland’s Military Modernization
In March, Poland announced a rise in defense spending to three percent of gross domestic product for 2023 to ramp up its arms imports amid Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.
Poland’s military has accelerated defense equipment procurement, bolstering the country’s armed forces.
In September, Minister of National Defense Mariusz Błaszczak announced the purchase of 96 AH-64E Apache helicopters for the army’s six squadrons.
The Boeing-made aircraft is equipped with enhanced infrared imaging, blending infrared, and night vision capabilities. The Apache can destroy armor, personnel, and materiel targets in obscured battlefield conditions.
Last month, the Polish Armed Forces also received its first 10 K2 Black Panther main battle tanks and 29 K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzers from South Korea.
The European nation expects more deliveries of these weapons following the August 2022 $5.76-billion deal.
Poland also expects to receive 300 K239 Chunmoo multiple launch rocket systems starting next year.
