Report: Poland Set to Acquire 1,400 Borsuk IFVs Equipped with Rafael’s Spike Missiles

Polish media report that Poland is set to purchase 1,400 Borsuk infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), each equipped with a pair of Spike missile launchers manufactured by Israel’s Rafael. According to the Polish defense website Defense24, Poland’s Deputy Minister of National Defense confirmed at the end of January that negotiations with the Polish defense company PGZ Group are nearing completion and are close to being signed.

The Army Recognition website reports that the Borsuk program was launched in 2014 as part of Poland’s strategy to modernize its mechanized forces. A demonstrator was unveiled in 2017, followed by continuous prototype improvements. Factory tests began in 2018, leading to military trials in 2020 and qualification tests in 2022. In February 2023, a framework agreement was signed for the procurement of 1,000 combat IFVs and 400 specialized support vehicles. The initial contract includes 159 units, with further deliveries expected to be completed by 2035.

In June 2024, we reported that the Polish company PGZ Group showcased the Borsuk IFV outside Poland for the first time at its booth at the Eurosatory 2024 exhibition in Paris. The Borsuk features a pair of Spike LR/LR2 anti-tank missile launchers manufactured by Rafael. In addition, it is equipped with the ZSSW-30 remotely controlled turret system, which includes a 30 mm Mk 44S Bushmaster cannon and a coaxial 7.62 mm UKM-2000C general-purpose machine gun.

The Borsuk plays a key role in the Polish army's force structure, offering a combination of firepower, protection, and advanced maneuverability. As part of its broader strategy to modernize its armored vehicle fleet, the Polish military unveiled an advanced version of the Rosomak 8×8 multi-role vehicle last year, featuring Rafael’s Spike-LR anti-tank guided missile launcher.