Brazil Eyes Polish BWP Borsuk IFV armored vehicles & Piorun Missiles for Military Modernization.

The Brazilian Armed Forces have expressed interest in the Polish Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) BWP Borsuk and the Man Portable Anti-Aircraft Missile System (MANPADS) Piorun. The announcement, made through a post by the X account of Krystian Pograniczny on November 20, 2024, highlights Brazil's ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces with cutting-edge military equipment.
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The BWP Borsuk Infantry Fighting Vehicle was showcased at MSPO 2024, highlighting its advanced modular design and state-of-the-art combat capabilities. (Picture source Army Recognition Group)

Polish defense products, known for their technological sophistication and effectiveness, are gaining increasing attention on the international stage. Brazil's potential acquisition aligns with its strategy to enhance its forces' mobility, combat effectiveness, and operational independence. 

The BWP Borsuk, developed by the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ) and its subsidiary Huta Stalowa Wola (HSW), is a state-of-the-art tracked Infantry Fighting Vehicle designed to replace the aging BWP-1 in the Polish Armed Forces. Development of the Borsuk began in 2014, with the first prototype revealed in 2017 and tested extensively in various environments to ensure its readiness for modern battlefield challenges. In 2022, the vehicle entered pre-production, and in 2023, the Polish Ministry of Defense signed a major contract to deliver over 1,000 units by 2035. 

Borsuk's design emphasizes modularity and adaptability. It features advanced composite armor and mine protection systems, providing excellent survivability against ballistic and explosive threats. The vehicle is powered by a 720-horsepower diesel engine, enabling high mobility even in challenging terrains such as forests, wetlands, and plains. Its ZSSW-30 turret, equipped with a 30mm automatic cannon, Spike LR anti-tank guided missiles, and an advanced fire control system, ensures precise engagement of enemy personnel, armored vehicles, and low-flying aircraft. Combined with its amphibious design, these capabilities make the Borsuk highly suitable for operations in South America’s diverse geographical conditions.

The Polish PPZR Piorun MANPADS is a cutting-edge portable anti-aircraft missile system designed to engage low-altitude aerial threats with precision and reliability. (Picture source Army Recognition Group)

The Piorun, also known as the Grom-M, is an advanced portable air-defense missile system developed by MESKO, a subsidiary of PGZ, in collaboration with CRW Telesystem-Mesko. Building on the legacy of the Grom system, the development of the Piorun began in 2010 to address emerging aerial threats. The system entered production in 2016 and quickly became a vital component of Poland's air defense. In 2022, the Polish government finalized a contract for the delivery of 3,500 Piorun missiles and 600 launchers to bolster its defense capabilities. Additionally, the system gained international recognition, with exports to nations such as the United States and Ukraine, where it has demonstrated effectiveness in combat operations.

With remarkable precision, the Piorun is designed to target low and very low-altitude threats, including drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft. Compared to its predecessor, it features improved sensors and guidance systems, allowing for superior performance even in adverse weather and electronic warfare conditions. Its portability and ease of operation make it an ideal solution for infantry units requiring quick deployment and high mobility.

In the South American context, where aerial threats and asymmetric warfare scenarios pose significant risks, both the Borsuk and Piorun could significantly enhance Brazil's operational capabilities. These systems not only address current defense needs but also align with Brazil's goal of developing a modern and independent military force capable of addressing diverse security challenges. 

This development signifies a potential strengthening of defense ties between Brazil and Poland. If formalized, the acquisition of the BWP Borsuk and PPZR Piorun would mark a significant step in Brazil’s modernization efforts, leveraging advanced technologies from Poland to meet the unique operational requirements of the Brazilian Armed Forces. 

The interest in Polish military technology underscores Brazil's commitment to equipping its forces with versatile, reliable, and effective systems. Moreover, it reflects the increasing global reputation of Polish defense manufacturers, whose products are being recognized for their innovative design and battlefield performance. 

As Brazil evaluates these systems, further collaboration between the two nations could pave the way for broader defense cooperation, technology transfer, and joint development opportunities. This aligns with both countries’ objectives of enhancing their defense capabilities and expanding their influence in the global defense market.