Poland Showcases K2 Black Panther Tanks in Slovakia

Poland has officially unveiled its cutting-edge K2 Black Panther main battle tanks during an international military exercise in Slovakia, marking a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to modernize its armed forces. This public debut was led by the 9th Braniewo Armored Cavalry Brigade, one of the main operators of the newly acquired tanks.

These advanced tanks are part of a larger modernization initiative that began in July 2022 when Poland signed a deal with South Korean defense manufacturer Hyundai Rotem. The agreement aimed to strengthen the country’s heavy ground combat capabilities, and as of now, Poland has already received around 110 K2 tanks. The initial batch of 10 units arrived just three months after the deal, alongside 29 K9 Thunder howitzers, also from South Korea.

Poland expects to receive the remaining 70 tanks out of the total 180 units later this year. These tanks are being distributed across multiple military brigades, including the 9th Braniewska Armored Cavalry Brigade, the 15th Gieżycka Mechanized Brigade, and the 20th Bartoszycka Mechanized Brigade—all part of the 16th Pomeranian Infantry Division. A few of the K2 tanks were also assigned to the Army Training Center in Poznań to support crew training and future operations.

The K2 Black Panther is one of the most advanced tanks in the world. Developed in South Korea during the early 2010s, it features a powerful 120-millimeter smoothbore cannon, a 12.7-millimeter heavy machine gun, and a 7.62-millimeter support gun. The tank is built using a combination of strong steel and high-tech ceramic armor for added protection.

Measuring 11 meters long and weighing 55 tons, the K2 is manned by a crew of three. It is powered by a 1,500-horsepower engine and a six-speed transmission, allowing it to reach speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour and cover distances of up to 450 kilometers on a single refuel.

In March, Poland’s Ministry of Defence announced plans to double its order of K2 tanks from South Korea. This move could extend deliveries over the next four years. However, there is also a possibility that future K2 tanks might be produced locally if Poland successfully establishes a domestic manufacturing hub for the vehicles.

By showcasing these tanks in Slovakia, Poland has sent a clear signal about its growing defense capabilities and commitment to NATO’s collective strength. The integration of the K2 Black Panther into its armed forces highlights Poland's ambition to become one of the most technologically advanced military powers in Central and Eastern Europe.