Frag Out! Magazine
Issue link: https://fragout.uberflip.com/i/1532587
The waiting period was used effectively, as by mid-November 2024, training for the first eight crews had been completed in Morąg. This training involved simulators, vehicles, and instructors from both Po- land and Korea. To complete the training, each crew had to conduct live-fire exercises using live rounds, during field drills. The first executive contract between Hyundai Rotem and the Arma- ment Agency was signed on August 26, 2022. It is valued at $3.4 billion (net) and covers 180 tanks, along with ammunition ("several dozen thousands of rounds") and support services for maintenance and training. Notably, Poland insisted on integrating certain onboard systems standard for the Polish Armed Forces, such as communica- tion equipment. Deliveries of the ordered equipment began in Decem- ber 2022, when the first ten tanks arrived in Gdynia by sea. The entire order is expected to be delivered by the end of 2025. This will enable the 16th Mechanized Division to field three battalions of next-gene- ration tanks, replacing the T-72 and PT-91 models previously in service. Additionally, the Land Forces Training Center will provide training for new personnel. Over nearly two years of operation, the K2 Black Panther tanks have proven their effectiveness, which comes as no surprise gi- ven that the trained crews previously operated tanks with Easter- n-designed systems. Among the key advantages noted by users is the high accuracy of the Hyundai WIA CN08 gun, capable of effectively engaging targets over 4,000 meters away. The Polish MOD has long stated that negotiations with Hyundai Rotem are underway for a second executive contract under the K2 Black Panther program. This contract is expected to include 180 tanks and 81 tracked armored recovery vehicles. However, due to undisclosed difficulties in the negotiations, the signing of this contract has been postponed twice. BLACK PANTHER K2 VEHICLES