Poland Expands Defense Line with M1150 ABV Acquisition

Poland has expanded its 2023 agreement with the United States relating to the supply of 116 M1A1 FEP Abrams combat tanks, as well as supporting equipment.

The agreement also provides for the supply of 12 M88A2 HERCULES recovery vehicles, eight M1074 JAB support bridges, six M577A3 command vehicles on the M113 chassis and 26 NG SECM (Next Generation Shop Equipment Contact Maintenance) field workshops on the M1152A1 HMMWV chassis.

Now, the Polish Defense has signed an extension of agreement for the purchase of 25 M1150 ABVs for its engineering units.

The M1150 ABVs (Assault Breacher Vehicle) based on the M1A1 Abrams tank chassis will be provided as part of a package valued at 115 million net dollars, inclusive of logistical support and training.

The delivery of the 25 M1150 ABVs to the Polish Defense will be completed by 2029.

The M1150 ABV is used by engineering units to eliminate natural obstacles and artificial barriers, clear minefields and perform excavations.

Based on mission-specific needs, the M1150 ABV can be configured with equipment for obstacle clearance, digging, or minefield clearance with mechanical or electromagnetic equipment.

Standard equipment on each M1150 ABV includes a rear-mounted C4 Mine Clearing Line Charge M58A3 for remote detonation of underground mines up to a distance of 100-150 meters in front of the vehicle.

For self-defense purposes, ABVs are equipped with a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun and a smoke grenade launcher. The crew consists of two soldiers: the commander and the vehicle driver.

Source: Polish National Defense Ministry

Photo credit: @US Army/Sgt. Trevor Cullen-Sgt.Andrew Winchell