Despite government assurances that defense spending remains intact, Poland’s military procurement plans have encountered significant setbacks this year. The anticipated delivery of KTO Rosomak armored personnel carriers has been sharply reduced, raising concerns over funding allocation and the country’s defense readiness.
The Rosomak Program and Cuts to Procurement The KTO Rosomak-L, a modified version of the standard Rosomak chassis, boasts several advancements, including increased payload capacity, a new engine, and a floating version with a wave breaker. The vehicles are further enhanced with the ZSSW-30 remote-controlled turret system and Spike anti-tank missile launchers.
Originally, the Armament Agency aimed to procure 232 Rosomaks equipped with ZSSW-30 systems as part of Poland’s broader defense modernization strategy. However, in July, a contract for 58 vehicles was signed at a cost of 2.6 billion PLN, with delivery slated for 2026-2027. A subsequent deal for 80 additional Rosomaks, valued at 4.3 billion PLN, was finalized with deliveries expected between 2027-2028. Combined, the two contracts cover only 138 vehicles—a stark reduction from the initial 232 units envisioned.
The discrepancy between initial plans and actual procurement has sparked debate. Bartosz Kownacki, a Law and Justice (PiS) MP and former Deputy Minister of National Defense, questioned the decision: “The assumptions were clearly different from what was achieved this year. I don’t fully understand why this happened. The government claims that defense funds have not been cut, and it’s clear that the Armed Forces Support Fund (FWSZ) has financial reserves that could be utilized for equipment purchases. So why hasn’t this reserve been tapped?”
Capabilities of the Rosomak with ZSSW-30 The ZSSW-30 turret system, the centerpiece of these new Rosomaks, offers significant combat capability. Its main armament, the Bushmaster Mk.44S automatic cannon, can fire in automatic and semi-automatic modes using five types of ammunition, including programmable rounds. Secondary armament includes the modified 7.62mm UKM-2000C machine gun and a twin Spike missile launcher. This combination allows for flexible, high-precision targeting, with ammunition reloadable both internally and externally.
Why the Shortfall? The Armament Agency confirmed ongoing negotiations earlier this year for the full purchase of 232 Rosomaks, but only 138 vehicles have been contracted. This reduction leaves a gap of 94 units. Kownacki believes the root cause may be financial rather than organizational: “The Ministry of Defense and the Armament Agency are fully capable of executing the original plan. This is not a new contract but a continuation of existing procurement strategies. I suspect that the real issue is a lack of available funds, despite claims of financial stability.”
Kownacki further criticized Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, suggesting his focus has shifted more toward political matters than addressing his department’s operational priorities. “The equipment needs of the Polish Army, including the Rosomaks, are far greater than what is currently being implemented. If the Homeland Defense Act envisions a 300,000-strong army, the number of vehicles and weaponry must grow proportionately. In that case, Rosomaks should be counted not in hundreds, but in thousands,” he emphasized.
A Strategic Setback Amid Growing Defense Needs The reduced procurement raises broader questions about Poland’s ability to fulfill its defense modernization goals. As regional security remains a critical concern, delays or reductions in key equipment purchases may hinder Poland’s military preparedness.
While financial constraints appear to be at play, observers argue that underutilized funds within the Armed Forces Support Fund could have prevented this shortfall. The situation highlights the need for more transparent financial planning and a renewed commitment to fulfilling Poland’s strategic defense ambitions.
For now, Poland’s defense forces will have to settle for fewer Rosomaks, despite clear operational demands and funding mechanisms that remain, at least in theory, available.