Image source: topwar.ru
K2 in service with the Polish army
In 2022, Poland purchased 180 K2 Black Panther tanks from South Korea, and their deliveries are gradually coming to an end.
Thus, a batch of new MBTs arrived in the 15th mechanized brigade, "covering" the eastern flank. A tank battalion of the 20th mechanized Brigade and one of the tank battalions of the 9th Armored Cavalry Brigade had previously switched to South Korean vehicles.
Currently, more than 110 of the 180 ordered K2s are in Poland. Deliveries of the remaining copies should be completed by the end of this year.
- it is noted in the Polish press.
As indicated, negotiations are currently underway with Seoul to conclude another contract for the supply of 180 K2/K2PL tanks, along with technical support and support vehicles.
Image source: topwar.ru
However, a number of local experts are sounding the alarm. When purchasing the first batch of MBT, the leadership of the army and the country assured that Poland, along with the tanks, would receive technological competencies and create its own production of vehicles. However, the armored vehicles arrived, but the national capacities for their manufacture were not created. In this regard, there are concerns that the situation will not get off the ground even after the purchase of the second batch.
For our part, we note that Warsaw is not in a position to dictate its terms, as the equipment is purchased from Seoul on credit. Moreover, debt payments are becoming increasingly vague as massive purchases of South Korean military equipment increase.
