PGZ holds steel cutting ceremony for 1st Miecznik class frigate for Polish Navy.

According to a PR published by PGZ on August 16, 2023, the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the first Type 31 frigate for the Polish Navy was held at PGZ War Shipyard.
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Steel cutting ceremony of first Polish Miecznik class frigate ORP Burza. (Picture source: Polish MoD)

By 2032, as part of the Miecznik program, the navy aims to induct three frigate-class vessels, which are expected to be the most advanced and best-equipped in the fleet.

The three state-of-the-art Miecznik frigates will be developed at PGZ War Shipyard in collaboration with global defense industry leaders, including Babcock, MBDA, Thales, and Remontowa Shipbuilding.

This is part of the largest contract ever awarded to the Polish shipbuilding sector. The first frigate is slated for completion by 2026, and the Miecznik program progresses as scheduled.

These multipurpose vessels will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Polish Navy, facilitating a range of maritime tasks, including safeguarding navigation routes and critical infrastructure.

They will strengthen Poland's military might and contribute to NATO's collaborative efforts, especially in participating with NATO's Standing Naval Groups.

Equipped with advanced radar, artillery, and missile systems, these frigates will empower the Polish Navy to undertake a broad spectrum of maritime operations, including collaborative missions and exercises with NATO allies.

Armament

The Miecznik class frigates are equipped with 32 Mark 41 VLS cells, capable of launching various missiles, including the Future Cruise/Anti-Ship Weapon and Sea Ceptor anti-air missiles.

The artillery arsenal includes a Leonardo 76mm Super Rapido, two PIT-Radwar 35mm AM-35 guns, two ZM Tarnów 12.7 mm ZSMU-1276 A3B remote-controlled modules, and two ZM Tarnów 12.7 mm WKM-Bm machine guns. Additionally, for anti-submarine operations, they have two B515/2V launchers for 324mm ASW torpedoes.