Poland acquires 250 Abrams tanks

Poland’s long-planned purchase of Abrams tanks has been confirmed. The US Army has awarded General Dynamics Land Systems the production of 250 Abrams in the latest configuration, the company announced on 25 August.

The €1.154 billion contract, awarded at the end of July according to the army, will give Poland new communications, firepower and armour features for its future Abrams fleet. The first M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams are expected to reach the country’s army in early 2025, the order having been initiated by Poland a year ago.

Training of soldiers began after the opening of an Abrams tank training academy at the Biedrusko training area, the Polish army announced at the beginning of the month. 28 tanks have been made available to the country to begin this training. Poland is hurrying to modernise its armoured capabilities as officials study how Russia’s assault on Ukraine is unfolding. In this conflict, tanks and artillery have played an essential role on both sides.

“NATO’s strength lies in its unity, which has never been greater than it is today”, said Douglas R. Bush, head of acquisition in the US government. “This contract is an example of the army’s continued work with its industry partners to increase production of critical military equipment capabilities to ensure we continue to meet the needs of our partners and allies.”