Extensive Upgrade for Enhanced Capability and Survivability

During MSPO 2019 in Kielce last week, WZM (Wojskowe Zakłady Motoryzacyjne) from Poznań presented not only a concept for a tank destroyer mounted on the chassis of the BWP-1 (BMP-1) tracked armoured infantry fighting vehicle (AIFV), which will be phased out in the near future, but also a modernisation package for the vehicles. According to official plans, BWP-1s will be replaced by the BORSUK AIFV now under development. This project will take many years before it is fully completed and thus a limited modernisation of the aging BWP-1s might still be required. It is estimated that Poland still has roughly 1,200 BWP-1s.

WZM’s offer includes modernisation of the chassis, a new powertrain (power-pack type) with the 6R 106 TD21 engine, strengthened suspension system, heating and air conditioning integrated with a fume exhaust system, a modern NBC threat detection system, new fire protection and explosion suppression system, more advanced electrical installation, replacement of electrical systems, improved ballistic protection (to level 3 STANAG 4569), modern external/internal communication system and a 360° situational awareness system.

Moreover, BWP-1s upgraded by WZM would be equipped with the Kongsberg PROTECTOR RWS LW-30 remotely-controlled weapon system (RCWS) with the BUSHMASTER M230LF 30mm cannon, co-axial UKM-2000C 7.62mm light machinegun, smoke grenade launchers integrated with the Obra SSP-1 OBRA-3 self-protection system. WZM added that its upgraded version could be also integrated with anti-tank weapons such as SPIKE, which is already in service in the Polish Army.

Robert Czulda