Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Błaszczak signed a contract for 24 Bayraktar TB2 armed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for the Polish Air Force with Baykar CEO Haluk Bayraktar in Ankara on 24 May, in the presence of Polish President Andrzej Duda.
Polish Defence Minister Mariusz Błaszczak signed a contract for 24 Bayraktar TB2 UAVs for the Polish Air Force with Baykar CEO Haluk Bayraktar in Ankara on 24 May (artist's impression of Bayraktar TB2 UAV with Polish Air Force markings). (Polish MND)
Under the deal, Poland will receive four unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) with six UAVs with laser-guided MAM-L thermobaric and MAM–C high-explosive Smart Micro Munitions, as well as training munitions from Roketsan. The contract also includes mobile ground-control stations (GCSs), synthetic aperture radars, simulators, spare parts, logistic support, and a training package. In a statement on 24 May, the Polish Ministry of National Defence (MND) valued each UAS at USD67 million.
The deal includes some technology transfer. The MND said Polish industry would gain capabilities in engine overhaul and repair and maintenance of GCSs and cameras.
The first batch of four UAVs is expected to be delivered in 2022 and all systems by the end of 2024. There will be a 24-month warranty on the UAVs.
The UAVs are being purchased off-the-shelf without a tender procedure. Their tactical ISTAR capabilities will partially meet the Polish MND's Orlik short-range tactical and Gryf armed UAV programme requirements. Orlik is expected to be used at the brigade level and Gryf at the division level armed with guided munitions. Both systems were scheduled to be delivered by 2022, but due to changes in Polish procurement priorities the whole process was delayed.
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