Abrams SEPv3 selection poses intriguing questions for Poland
An M1A2 SEPv3 tank fires at multiple range targets during a US Army exercise in April 2021. (Photo: US Army/Sgt Melissa Lessard)
How is the Polish government funding the $6 billion procurement of 250 Abrams SEPv3 tanks, and does this mark the start of a broader MBT replacement programme?
Polish Deputy Prime Minister Jaroslaw Kaczynski and Minister of National Defence Mariusz Blaszczak announced on 14 July that Poland will procure the most advanced variant of the General Dynamics Land Systems M1A2 Abrams main battle tank (MBT).
According to a Polish MoD statement, 250 M1A2 System Enhancement Package version 3 (SEPv3) tanks will be ordered — sufficient to equip four tank battalions. About 15 tanks will be used for training purposes.
Shephard understands that the new tanks will partially replace the 400-strong fleet of T-72M/M1 MBTs in Polish service.
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Land Warfare
-
![Hungary set to begin using Hero 400 loitering munitions]()
Hungary set to begin using Hero 400 loitering munitions
Developed by Israel's Uvision and with systems being sold in the thousands to multiple European NATO countries and the US, the Hero family of loitering systems is also in production in the US and Italy, the latter through Rheinmetall.
-
![Croatia orders Leopards and CAESAR howitzers as Lithuania orders more CAESARs]()
Croatia orders Leopards and CAESAR howitzers as Lithuania orders more CAESARs
The Leopard is becoming the tank of choice in central and eastern Europe as Croatia joins Lithuania, the Czech Republic and Hungary in ordering the platform. Lithuania and Croatia have also signed for CAESAR howitzers.
-
![Light Reconnaissance Strike – enabling a vital mission set (Studio)]()
Light Reconnaissance Strike – enabling a vital mission set (Studio)
A new system-of-systems concept will unlock digital integration of sensors and weapons for Light Forces, allowing them to shape the battlefield environment on their own terms and upgrade legacy platforms.
