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Poland Eyes GDLS UK’s ARES IFV as a Modular Solution for its Abrams Tank Brigades.
Poland’s heavy infantry fighting vehicle (CBWP) program is entering a decisive phase with the possible involvement of a new British contender. According to information published on April 16, 2025, by the specialized portal Defence24, General Dynamics Land Systems UK (GDLS UK) is proposing its AJAX platform—specifically the ARES variant—as a basis for Poland’s future heavy IFV. This proposal comes as the Polish Ministry of National Defence seeks to accelerate the implementation of this strategic program, designed to complement the recently acquired Abrams tanks.
The version of the ARES would be equipped with the ZSSW-30 remote-controlled turret, developed domestically by Huta Stalowa Wola (HSW) and WB Electronics, and already integrated into the Rosomak and Borsuk platforms. (Picture source: UK MoD)
The CBWP is seen as a key component in the modernization of Poland’s mechanized and armored forces. Secretary of State for Defence Paweł Bejda confirmed in an interview that the acquisition must meet operational requirements under a compressed timeline. Discussions are ongoing with the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), which is assessing multiple technical pathways. While a domestic solution remains on the table, a strategic partnership with a foreign defense firm is also under consideration, particularly if it enables rapid production while incorporating local elements.
The version of the ARES vehicle proposed for Poland would differ substantially from the configuration currently fielded by the British Army. It would be equipped with the ZSSW-30 remote-controlled turret, developed domestically by Huta Stalowa Wola (HSW) and WB Electronics, and already integrated into the Rosomak and Borsuk platforms. The turret features a 30 mm Bushmaster Mk44S automatic cannon, a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun, and dual Spike-LR anti-tank missile launchers. It also incorporates advanced optical and thermal imaging systems, target stabilization, and a NATO-compatible open digital architecture. With this configuration, the ARES would be transformed into a fully capable heavy IFV designed to operate alongside Abrams-equipped brigades.
The ARES chassis, derived from the AJAX platform, retains core features such as modular ballistic protection, tactical mobility, and scalability up to 42 tonnes with additional armor. Powered by a 600 kW diesel engine, the vehicle reaches speeds of up to 70 km/h with an operational range of 500 km. The integration of the ZSSW-30 turret would allow for logistics standardization within the Polish Army and increase combat interoperability, while also leveraging a fire control system already in production and service domestically. The potential for joint manufacturing with British industry could further expand bilateral defense cooperation.
Other platforms under consideration for the CBWP include the German Lynx, South Korean Redback, Turkish Tulpar, American AMPV, and Spanish ASCOD. The inclusion of the AJAX-based ARES expands the competitive field. While the British Army has not yet fielded a dedicated IFV variant within the AJAX family, the platform’s modular design allows for this evolution. However, the AJAX program has faced significant technical difficulties since its inception, particularly with respect to excessive vibrations and cabin noise. These issues required several years of engineering effort, including the development of new hydraulic dampers by Piedrafita to compensate for the limitations of the original torsion bar suspension system.
The impact of these early technical setbacks was amplified by substantial cost overruns, which GDLS UK passed on to the UK Ministry of Defence—an approach that drew widespread criticism. Although British forces have expressed satisfaction with the vehicle’s current performance, this stability came only after long delays and a troubled development history. To date, 100 AJAX vehicles have been delivered, with initial operational capability projected for 2025. Full fleet delivery is expected to continue through 2029.
The AJAX family includes several variants: 245 reconnaissance vehicles equipped with 40 mm CTA guns, 93 ARES APCs, 112 Athena command vehicles, 38 Atlas repair vehicles, 51 Argus engineer reconnaissance vehicles, and 50 Apollo recovery vehicles. None are currently IFVs, but the platform’s modular design allows for the development of a dedicated version, with a scalable weight up to 42 tonnes using additional armor kits.
Simultaneously, Polish manufacturer Huta Stalowa Wola is pursuing a domestically designed alternative that uses hydropneumatic suspension from the outset. This contrasts with the AJAX platform, which required extensive retrofitting to resolve its suspension flaws. The proactive engineering approach of the Polish solution may weigh favorably in evaluations, particularly if reliability, maintainability, and production oversight are prioritized.
Analysts have also noted the increasingly visible presence of GDLS UK lobbying efforts within the Polish Ministry of Defence—an influence that could tilt the selection process in favor of a foreign platform. Nevertheless, segments of the defense community remain firmly in favor of supporting national industry and avoiding the operational and financial complications experienced in the British program.
The inclusion of the AJAX-based ARES in the CBWP competition introduces a significant new variable into a complex procurement process. The decision Poland must now make lies between adopting a foreign platform with a technically mature yet controversial development record, or advancing a homegrown solution built on early-stage engineering precision and strategic autonomy. This choice will shape not only the future capabilities of Poland’s mechanized brigades, but also its long-term industrial posture within European and NATO defense ecosystems.