Poland receives its first batch of Borsuk IFVs, replacing the BMP-1s.
The first 15 Borsuk vehicles were delivered to the 15th Gizhytsk Mechanized Brigade; Poland ordered 111 vehicles at a cost of 6.57 billion zloty, to be delivered between 2025 and 2029; ZSSW-30, 30 mm gun, Spike-LR.
Poland has begun deploying the Borsuk infantry fighting vehicle: the first 15 units have been delivered to the 15th Gizhytsk Mechanized Brigade under a contract effective from March 2025. Following this, the Polish Army is ordering 111 Borsuk vehicles at a cost of 6.57 billion zloty (approximately $1.67 billion), to be delivered between 2025 and 2029. The Borsuk is manufactured by Huta Stalowa Wola (HSW) of Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) and is intended to replace the outdated BMP-1.
Overview of the Borsuk program
The Borsuk is a new generation tracked infantry fighting vehicle, developed and manufactured by Poland to replace the BMP-1. Under the current contract, deliveries are scheduled to take place continuously from 2025 to 2029, accompanied by training and logistical support. The manufacturer states that it has trained over 50 soldiers; after a few weeks, these personnel can operate the vehicle within their units.
ZSSW-30 Weapon and Sensor Configuration
- The ZSSW-30 remote-controlled combat module was developed by Poland.
- The Bushmaster II Mk 44 30 mm automatic cannon supports the use of programmable ammunition.
- Twin launcher for Spike-LR long-range anti-tank missiles.
- The automated fire control system was developed by WB Electronics.
- PCO's stabilized sighting system with thermal imaging camera and laser rangefinder.
- SSP-1 Obra active protection system.
Organize vehicle crews and troop transport.
The basic configuration of the Borsuk has a crew of 3 and a troop compartment for 6. The ZSSW-30 combat module is remotely controlled, allowing operation from inside the vehicle.
Handover and training plan
The first batch of 15 vehicles has been delivered to the 15th Gizhytsk Mechanized Brigade. The manufacturer has trained more than 50 servicemen to operate the equipment. The current agreement includes a training, technical support, and logistical support package throughout the period 2025-2029.
Combat role and replacement for the BMP-1
The Borsuk was deployed to replace the BMP-1, focusing on enhancing firepower and observation-and-targeting capabilities. Its 30 mm cannon supports programmable ammunition and Spike-LR missiles, increasing its ability to destroy armored targets at long range. The thermal imaging sensor system, laser rangefinder, and automatic fire control system aim to maintain combat capability in various lighting and weather conditions.
Force requirements
According to the Polish Ministry of Defence, the total demand for infantry fighting vehicles and specialized variants is 1,400 units; of which more than 1,000 are IFV versions and approximately 400 are specialized equipment.
Summary of key specifications
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Huta Stalowa Wola (HSW), belongs to PGZ |
| Crew | 3 people |
| Transporting troops | 6 people |
| Combat Module | ZSSW-30 remote control |
| Main weapon | Bushmaster II Mk 44 30 mm cannon (programmable ammunition) |
| Missile | Spike-LR (twin launcher) |
| Fire control | WB Electronics |
| Aim/Track | PCO: thermal imaging camera, laser rangefinder; stabilization system |
| Protection system | SSP-1 Obra |
| Place an order | 111 units; 6.57 billion zloty (~$1.67 billion) |
| Handover schedule | 2025 - 2029; the first 15 vehicles have been delivered. |
| Total demand | 1,400 vehicles (>1,000 IFVs, ~400 specialized vehicles) |
