The Polish Black Panther tank receives advanced protection systems, reinforced armor, and a remotely controlled module
Hyundai Rotem has presented the final version of the Polish modification of the K2PL tank, which incorporates a two-tier anti-drone protection system, in addition to other improvements requested by the client. A promotional video released by the company showcased the model of the future combat vehicle.
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Defense against drones
The K2PL has been equipped with a modern set of systems to counter drone threats. Among them:
- Onboard electronic warfare (EW) complex, capable of suppressing enemy drone communications.
- KAPS-2 active protection system, which uses millimeter-wave radars to monitor the vehicle’s perimeter and detect incoming threats.
These radars trigger turrets positioned on the tank’s main turret, which release a fragmentation charge toward the target, physically destroying it. The video also shows that the two rear turrets can rotate toward the threat and are capable of automatic reloading after firing, ensuring greater self-defense capability against drones.
Structural and localized improvements
At the request of Polish clients, the K2PL version received:
- Reinforced armor on the hull and turret;
- Remotely controlled module with heavy machine gun;
- Integration of Polish electronic components, ensuring standardization with NATO requirements.
These adaptations are part of the localization process, which increases the participation of Poland’s defense industry in the program.
Production in Poland
The framework agreement between the Polish government and Hyundai Rotem provides for the acquisition of 1,000 K2 tanks in six separate contracts of 180 vehicles each.
- The first contract, signed in 2022, quickly delivered units in the K2GF (Gap Filler) version, intermediate models that can later be upgraded to the K2PL standard.
- The second contract, signed in August 2025, transfers much of the production to the ZM Bumar-Łabędy armored plant in Gliwice.
In this cycle, 61 complete K2PL tanks will be produced on Polish territory. In addition, the contract includes the production of specialized equipment based on the K2 chassis:
- 25 engineering vehicles,
- 25 armored bridges,
- 31 armored recovery vehicles.
Source and images: Hyundai Rotem. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
