Polish Military Gives Thumbs Up to 'K-Defense'... 3.2 Trillion Won Submarine Contract Jackpot?

K2 Tank Crew: "Huge Performance Gap Compared to Existing Tanks"
Domestic Defense Companies Promote at Defense Exhibition

Korean defense companies participated in the 31st Poland International Defence Industry Exhibition (MSPO) held in Kielce, Poland, from the 5th to the 8th (local time), promoting additional orders targeting Poland, which has rapidly emerged as a military power in Europe. Poland has already decided to procure over 1,000 K-2 tanks, around 670 K-9 self-propelled howitzers, and approximately 288 K-239 multiple launch rocket systems 'Cheonmu' from Korean companies, drawing attention to whether this will result in record-breaking export achievements.

On the 5th, outside the MSPO exhibition hall, Cezar Kraczek, a 35-year-old Polish K2 tank crew member, is giving a thumbs-up in front of the K2 tank. (Photo by Korea Defense Industry Association)

Hanwha Group emphasized the technological prowess of the Jangbogo-III submarine to secure the 3.2 trillion KRW Poland submarine project (Orka project). Lee Buhwan, head of Hanwha Aerospace's European branch, stated, "We believe the Korean solution is the only model that can technically meet all of Poland's requirements," adding, "Due to the trust built since last year, Hanwha Ocean can approach the Polish Navy more easily." Earlier, on the 5th, Hanwha Group Vice Chairman Kim Dong-kwan explained submarine technology to Polish President Andrzej Duda during his visit to the booth.

Cho Hyun-gi, head of the Defense Acquisition Program Administration's Base Power Project Division, said, "Poland considers Korean submarines a good solution, and since South Korean shipyards are competitive, it is expected to be a strategic opportunity to enter the submarine business."

During the exhibition, Hanwha Aerospace signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Poland's state-owned defense company PGZ for the localization of the Cheonmu system. This is a measure to promote the second execution contract for Cheonmu exports, covering the delivery of remaining quantities under the basic contract and cooperation on localization. Hanwha Aerospace plans to obtain government approval for technology transfer for the second execution contract, and both parties agreed to negotiate considering the possibility of establishing a joint venture.

They also plan to cooperate on technical measures to apply 122mm rockets produced in Poland to the Cheonmu system. Hanwha Aerospace signed an MOU with the Polish Military Automotive and Armored Technology Research Institute for the development of military unmanned vehicles. Through this MOU, Hanwha Aerospace intends to involve its existing or developing unmanned vehicles in the modernization projects of the Polish Army.

Hyundai Rotem announced that it is currently negotiating with the Polish side to finalize the second contract after signing the first contract for K2 tanks last year. Seo Jun-mo, head of Hyundai Rotem's European defense branch, said, "The second contract is being closely discussed among consortium members according to the comprehensive contract signed last year," adding, "It is slightly delayed compared to the initial plan, but since it is a large-scale and long-term project, there are many matters to be discussed." He also mentioned, "After successfully exporting to Poland, many neighboring European countries have tank replacement needs," citing Romania, the Czech Republic, and Lithuania as countries showing interest.

At the outdoor exhibition in Kielce, Polish K2 tank operator (35 years old) Cezar Kraczyk said, "Compared to the T-72 tank I used, I felt tremendous progress," adding, "There is an incomparable difference in the tank's propulsion and performance. Riding the K2 is fun." He further explained, "(The K2 tank) offers mobility, agility, and you can feel the 1,500 horsepower throughout your body," adding, "It provides a comfortable ride even when maneuvering through various terrains, mud, and sand, and easily overcomes all defects and infiltration routes."

LIG Nex1 targeted Poland and neighboring countries by showcasing various weapon systems such as KGGB at their exhibition booth. Kim Mu-gyeom, head of the Overseas Business Division 3, said, "Recently, K-defense has become quite famous starting from Poland, and awareness of K-defense has significantly increased in neighboring countries as well," adding, "We will do our best to create opportunities to secure orders for our products soon, beyond just platform companies."

Kim Jong-do, head of the SNT Dynamics Technology Research Institute, conveyed the high level of interest in K-defense on-site. "Many Polish soldiers visited the booth," he said, "They showed particular interest in the 1,500 to 1,700 horsepower transmissions for the K2 tank and the 1,000 horsepower class transmission for the K9." Sebastian Chwaczek, chairman of PGZ, said, "In terms of missile and artillery solutions, Korea is more advanced than us, so we want to produce these solutions together with Korea in Poland," adding, "However, other radar or night vision goggles (NVG) systems might be provided by Poland through Korean partners." He continued, "If either Korea or Poland faces a threat, they can help each other," and added, "Although this is not yet visible, the strategic cooperation between the two countries will be actively and visibly implemented if one side is attacked."

Meanwhile, Poland has confirmed the procurement of the US Apache helicopter. On the 6th (local time), Mariusz Błaszczak, Poland's Minister of National Defence and Deputy Prime Minister, announced via social media that the US Congress approved the sale of 96 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters equipped with radar and armaments to Poland. Minister Błaszczak said, "Price negotiations are currently underway. Until the procedures are completed and the procured helicopters are delivered to Poland, the US Army will provide us with its own reserve Apaches."

The AH-64E Apache is the most advanced latest multi-purpose combat helicopter for the US Army and an increasing number of global defense forces. Last year, the Polish government decided to purchase Apache attack helicopters as part of rapid efforts to strengthen military power against Russia's attack on Ukraine.

With this, Poland has risen as the strongest military power in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.