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Poland presents an unmanned mine-laying vehicle to reinforce autonomous mine warfare capabilities.
According to information collected by Army Recognition at MSPO 2025 in Kielce, Poland, the Polish defense industry has showcased the Bluszcz unmanned-manned mine laying system, a next-generation engineering vehicle designed to rapidly establish minefields with both precision and flexibility. Developed in cooperation with STEKOP and the Military Institute of Armoured and Automotive Technology, the Bluszcz represents a major technological leap in combat engineering and force protection capabilities.
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The Polish Bluszcz mine laying vehicle unveiled at MSPO 2025 can operate in manned or unmanned mode, deploying up to 100 MN-123 anti-tank mines with programmable range and density between 30 and 90 meters (Picture source: Army Recognition Group).
The Bluszcz is a compact, armored 4x4 vehicle designed to operate in either manned or unmanned mode, allowing combat engineers to deploy it directly into contested zones with minimal risk to crews. Its modular control system enables manual operation by a driver or remote operation at distance, depending on the tactical environment. For full autonomy, the vehicle can also be preprogrammed to follow designated routes, laying mines without continuous human input. This hybrid approach to control reflects current trends in the Polish defense sector, where manned-unmanned teaming is becoming a core operational philosophy.
The mine laying system consists of a barrel package integrated into the vehicle chassis, capable of carrying 20 interchangeable cartridges. Each cartridge is loaded with five MN-123 anti-tank mines, allowing the system to deploy up to 100 mines per sortie. The firing mechanism enables programmable placement density, with ranges between 30 to 90 meters, giving commanders fine control over the depth and effectiveness of a minefield. Both range and density parameters can be adapted depending on terrain, threat level, or mission requirements, ensuring tailored battlefield denial effects.
Bluszcz offers armed forces a rapid solution for shaping the battlefield. It can be used to establish defensive belts ahead of armored formations, protect flanks during maneuver warfare, or slow down advancing mechanized forces. The unmanned function is particularly relevant in high-risk environments, such as forward positions exposed to artillery or UAV observation, where traditional engineer units would face severe vulnerability. Its armored hull and mobility also ensure survivability during deployment in contested areas.
The unveiling of Bluszcz aligns with Poland’s broader strategy to strengthen its territorial defense and deterrence posture in light of ongoing security challenges in Eastern Europe. As NATO’s eastern flank state, Poland has prioritized investments in land defense technologies, particularly systems that enhance mobility, survivability, and area denial. By fielding an indigenous mine laying solution, Warsaw reduces reliance on foreign suppliers while reinforcing its ability to contribute to NATO’s collective defense strategy. The system could also be of interest to other European or allied nations facing similar requirements for rapidly deployable, flexible mine warfare solutions.
With the Bluszcz, Poland is positioning itself not only as a user but also as a supplier of advanced engineering vehicles. Its debut at MSPO 2025 highlights the country’s ambition to expand its defense industrial base and potentially open new export opportunities in regions where mine warfare remains an essential element of military doctrine.