Mobile Command Vehicle Heron 6x6: New Asset of Polish Army for Its HIMARS Divisions at MSPO 2024.

During the XXXII International Defense Industry Exhibition MSPO 2024, held at Targach Kielce from September 3 to 6, Huta Stalowa Wola (HSW), a member of the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), unveiled the Heron 6x6 command vehicle, designed for artillery and missile forces at the battalion and division levels. This event marked an important milestone for the Heron 6x6, which had previously made its public debut at the 13th International Scientific Conference EKSPLOBALIS_2024, organized by the Military Institute of Armored and Automotive Technology (WITPiS) from May 27 to 29 in Jachranka, near Warsaw.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The Heron 6x6 is based on the TADEAS 6x6 vehicle (Tatra Defence Armoured Solution), using the Tatra Force T815-7 chassis with the first and third steering axles(Picture source: ArmyRecognition)

Before its presentation at MSPO 2024, the Heron 6x6 participated in the experimental Field Experimentation Exercise (FEX-2024), held from May 20 to 24 at the Nowa Dęba Land Forces Training Center and the Lipa training area. This exercise aimed to test the technological solutions proposed by the defense industry within the Future Task Force (FTF) concept. The vehicle also took part in the military parade in Warsaw on August 15, during the celebration of Polish Armed Forces Day, serving as a command vehicle for the Homar-K (K239 Chunmoo) multiple rocket launchers.

The Heron 6x6 is the result of a collaboration between Huta Stalowa Wola SA and the Czech company Tatra Export, a member of Tatra Trucks and the Czechoslovak Group. This cooperation is similar to that which produced the Waran 4x4 tactical vehicle, already in service with the Polish Armed Forces in the Ottokar-Brzoza anti-tank destroyer and Gladius reconnaissance and strike drone systems. Additionally, the Polish industry has proposed a command version of the Waran and a drone combat system (BSL).

The Heron 6x6 is based on the TADEAS 6x6 vehicle (Tatra Defence Armoured Solution), using the Tatra Force T815-7 chassis with the first and third steering axles. The TADEAS chassis was also used by the Czechs to develop, in collaboration with the French group KNDS (then Nexter Systems), the Titus 6x6 mine-resistant vehicle, of which 62 units were ordered by the Czech government, with deliveries completed on July 2, 2024.

The base TADEAS 6x6 vehicle carries a crew of two and can accommodate an additional 11 soldiers. It can reach a maximum speed of 120 km/h on the road and has a driving range of 700 km. The vehicle offers ballistic protection at level 4 according to the STANAG 4569A standard and mine protection at level 4A/4B, equivalent to 150 kg of TNT. Its load capacity is 10 tons.

The Czechs offer different engine options: an air-cooled 8-cylinder Tatra diesel engine, available in several versions with power outputs ranging from 300 to 365 kW, or a liquid-cooled 6-cylinder Caterpillar engine, delivering power outputs from 395 to 447 kW. These engines are coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. The crew's situational awareness is enhanced by an advanced management and communication system.

The acquisition of the Heron 6x6 command vehicle by the Polish Armed Forces is particularly relevant for artillery and missile forces, primarily due to its ability to enhance the coordination and management of field operations. This vehicle is designed to serve as a mobile command post, allowing battalion or division commanders to efficiently manage artillery and missile systems, such as HIMARS and multiple rocket launchers, while being protected against ballistic threats and mines.

The Heron 6x6, based on the robust Tatra 815-7 chassis, offers high mobility and excellent protection, which is essential for command missions in hostile environments. Additionally, it is equipped with advanced communication and data processing systems, facilitating real-time management of critical information and complex military operations. These characteristics make it a strategic asset for Polish forces, particularly in light of growing regional threats, such as the conflict in Ukraine.

Internationally, the Heron 6x6 could attract interest from other countries due to its robust design and versatility. The global market for armored vehicles, particularly those intended for command functions, is expanding, especially in countries looking to modernize their military capabilities. The vehicle also benefits from strong industrial partnerships between Poland and the Czech Republic, which enhances its competitiveness on the international market. The Heron 6x6's ability to adapt to various operational needs and integrate advanced technologies could make it attractive to other armies seeking to improve their field operation management.