Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) and BAE Systems signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation for combat and rescue vehicles on 21^st November.

If requested and accepted, the companies plan to establish a strategic relationship to provide M88 Armoured Recovery Vehicle (ARV) and other combat vehicle support to the Polish Armed Forces in support of Abrams-based heavy brigades.

BAE Systems and PGZ plan to expand their collaboration to support the Polish Armed Forces’ modernization projects and secure critical lifecycle support capabilities at Polish defence industry facilities.

The main area of cooperation is the M88 Armoured Recovery Vehicle program, which is a key part of the M1A2 Abrams tank procurement program announced by the Polish Ministry of Defence earlier this year. The M88A2 rescue vehicle answers the need for a cost-effective, self-supporting 70-tonne recovery system for armoured units.

Sebastian Chwałek, Chairman of the Board of PGZ, said the following about the cooperation: ‘’We are determined to increase the value and scope of our strategic partnership with every company involved in the technical modernization programs of the Polish Armed Forces. With M88 ARVs, BAE Systems has gained a foothold in our Land Forces, and we are working to secure a fruitful relationship that will provide high quality services for our soldiers as well as new capabilities for our facilities.’’

Jeremy Tondreault, Head of Platforms and Services at BAE Systems said: ‘’ Today’s agreement marks an important milestone in our emerging industrial cooperation partnership with PGZ and demonstrates our commitment to deliver critical capabilities to support Poland’s defence modernization efforts. The M88 program now gives us the opportunity to localize maintenance services to Poland. We look forward to providing the best, most capable rescue and battlefield solutions to equip the Polish Land Forces with the modern, proven NATO platforms necessary to maintain Europe’s stability.’’

Another combat vehicle solution within the scope of the agreement is the Armoured Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV). AMPV from BAE Systems provides its users with significant protection, mobility, reliability and interoperability. AMPV is designed to be integrated with the US Army’s Armoured Brigade Combat Team (ABCT) and to work with M1A2 Abrams tanks.