According to information published by the Polish Online Defence Magazine "Defence24" on February 27, 2024, the Polish government has announced a major procurement initiative for the Polish armed forces. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, alongside Deputy Minister Paweł Bejda, is set to participate in a landmark ceremony for the signing of a framework agreement with AMZ-Kutno SA. This agreement marks the commencement of the delivery of the innovative light armored reconnaissance carriers (LOTR) Kleszcz, aiming to significantly upgrade Poland's military reconnaissance capabilities.
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AMZ-Kutno SA LOTR 4x4 armored reconnaissance vehicle at MSPO 2022, defense exhibition in Poland. (Picture source Army Recognition Group)
The Polish Ministry of Defense has laid out ambitious plans to acquire 300 LOTR Kleszcz 4x4 armored vehicles, which are set to replace the aging Soviet-made BRDM-2 4x4 armored vehicle currently in service. This modernization effort reflects Poland's commitment to enhancing its defense and surveillance capabilities in response to evolving security challenges.
The framework agreement, facilitated by the Polish Armament Agency representing the State Treasury of the Republic of Poland and AMZ-Kutno SA, outlines the principles and conditions for the forthcoming individual executive agreements. These agreements will govern the acquisition and delivery of nearly 300 vehicles, scheduled to bolster the army's operational capabilities between 2025 and 2035.
Developed under the "Light Armored Reconnaissance Carrier" project, co-financed by the Polish National Centre for Research and Development (NCBR) from 2013 to 2022, the LOTR Kleszcz represents a significant advancement in military technology. The project, which had a total cost of PLN 36.45 million, including NCBR co-financing of PLN 33.42 million (€7.76 million), was executed by a consortium led by the Polish Company AMZ-Kutno SA in collaboration with key military research institutes.
The LOTR Kleszcz 4x4 armored vehicle, emerging in response to the Kleszcz program, is being developed by AMZ Kutno as the Bóbr 3 armored reconnaissance vehicle. Designed to succeed the post-Soviet BRDM-2 4x4 armored vehicles, these new personnel armored carriers promise enhanced performance and reliability, meeting the contemporary operational needs of the Polish Army's reconnaissance units. The initial acquisition plans for these advanced vehicles aimed to surpass 240 units, signifying a substantial enhancement of Poland's military reconnaissance capabilities.
This strategic initiative not only underscores Poland's dedication to maintaining a formidable defense posture but also highlights the nation's focus on fostering innovation and technological advancement within its military apparatus.
Defense News February 2024
