Poland Orders 286 Kleszcz Armored Reconnaissance Vehicles for Army

Defense News ,Poland :-  Poland has recently signed a pivotal agreement with mobility developer AMZ-Kutno, solidifying plans to provide the army with 286 Kleszcz light armored reconnaissance personnel carriers. This strategic move follows an extensive study conducted by Warsaw's military science organizations and the National Center for Research and Development. The study aimed to equip the land forces with an advanced reconnaissance system, drawing inspiration from the Soviet-made Bóbr vehicles and their contemporary versions.

The Kleszcz vehicles, once deployed, are anticipated to elevate the level of crew protection during intelligence missions on the battlefield. Deliveries are scheduled to take place from 2025 through 2035, marking a significant milestone in modernizing the Polish army.

Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized the contract as a confirmation of bolstering defense capabilities and expressed a commitment to transform the Polish Armed Forces. He highlighted the Kleszcz as a crucial asset for reconnaissance, emphasizing the importance of having effective "eyes and ears" on the battlefield, particularly in light of the lessons learned from the conflict in Ukraine.

The Kleszcz vehicle itself is a 4×4 wheeled system, boasting a five-member crew and a diesel engine with over 300 horsepower. With a maximum speed of 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour, the 6.9-meter (22-foot) vehicle can be integrated with a NATO-standard ballistic and mine-resistant chassis. The specialized armor of the Kleszcz is complemented by a laser radiation warning system, a remote-controlled weapons module, and a smoke grenade launcher. Depending on combat requirements, it can also be equipped with a 30-millimeter automated cannon turret or anti-tank guided missiles.

The origins of the Kleszcz trace back to its introduction by the Polish government in 2018. Two years later, testing commenced, focusing on the vehicle's optoelectronic and radar equipment. The conclusive phase of preliminary trials wrapped up in the same year.

Looking beyond the Kleszcz, Poland's military ambitions extend into 2023 when the procurement of light reconnaissance vehicles, wheeled armored personnel carriers, and heavy infantry combat vehicles was approved. The initiative will unfold through three separate contracts for each vehicle type. Reconnaissance vehicle deliveries are set to begin this year and continue until 2030, while the armored carriers are expected to be delivered by 2035. Specific details regarding the shipment of "several hundred" heavy infantry fighting vehicles have not been disclosed at this time.