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Ukrainian army has now received first Polish Rosomak APCs to fight Russian troops.
The Ukrainian army's 21st Mechanized Brigade has recently received new Polish-made Rosomak 8x8 armored vehicles which are now used to fight Russian troops. Indeed, the Ukrainian Army 21st Brigade is currently engaged in a defensive operation against a Russian counteroffensive in the western region of Kreminna, located in northeastern Ukraine.
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Polish-made Rosomak 8x8 armored vehicles are now in service with the Ukrainian army. (Picture source video footage Twitter)
The Ukrainian Army 21st Brigade received a donation of armored vehicles from Sweden earlier this year, which included 50 CV90 infantry fighting vehicles, 10 Strv 122 tanks, eight Archer howitzers, and at least one Bgbv 90 armored recovery vehicle. However, these vehicles were insufficient to fully equip the entire brigade, which consists of 2,000 personnel.
The addition of Polish Rosomak Wolverines represents a significant improvement in the operational readiness of the Ukrainian Army 21st Brigade. These eight-wheel infantry fighting vehicles weigh 25 tons and were part of Poland's commitment to providing 200 of them to the Ukrainian government, as the Army Recognition editorial team reported on 06/04/2023. This is the first time they have been spotted in Ukraine.
The Rosomak is a Polish-made 8x8 wheeled Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) with its based on the Finnish Patria AMV (Armored Modular Vehicle) design. The name "Rosomak" translates to "Wolverine" in Polish, and in 2003, Poland acquired a license from Finland's Patria to produce the APC locally, with adaptations to meet the specific requirements of the Polish Armed Forces.
Manufactured primarily by Wojskowe Zakłady Mechaniczne (WZM), a Polish defense company, production of the Rosomak began in 2004, and the first units were delivered to the Polish military in 2007.
What sets the Rosomak apart is its exceptional modularity, enabling it to be configured for various roles, including infantry fighting vehicle (IFV), command and control, ambulance, reconnaissance, and more. Renowned for its mobility, protection, and firepower, the Rosomak excels in both urban and off-road environments.
The APC version of the Rosomak serves the vital role of transporting infantry troops while offering them a secure combat environment. Typically manned by a driver, a commander, and a gunner, the vehicle can accommodate 8-10 fully-equipped infantry soldiers, depending on the specific model and layout.
One of the most commendable features of the Rosomak is its high level of crew and troop protection. Its steel armor can be enhanced with modular additions, tailoring it to the mission's needs. The baseline armor provides defense against small arms fire, shell splinters, and mine explosions, while the additional armor can withstand larger caliber weapons and heavier anti-tank threats, including RPGs.
Furthermore, the Rosomak APC is equipped with an NBC (Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical) protection system, ensuring the safety of its occupants in contaminated environments. The vehicle also boasts smoke grenade launchers that can create a concealment smoke screen when required.
Regarding armament, the APC version of the Rosomak typically features a remotely operated weapon station (ROWS) that can be equipped with various weapons, such as a 12.7mm heavy machine gun or a 40mm automatic grenade launcher. This firepower enhances the vehicle's ability to engage threats effectively while keeping the crew secure within its robust armor.
The Rosomak stands as a reliable and adaptable armored vehicle, well-suited to meet the diverse operational demands of the Polish Armed Forces. Its proven mobility, protection, and firepower capabilities make it an essential asset for the infantry's transportation and safeguarding during critical missions.