Polish Navy Secures New Rescue Ship Contract
The Polish Navy is set to enhance its maritime capabilities with a significant new addition. Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ), along with its subsidiaries PGZ Stocznia Wojenna and Ośrodek Badawczo-Rozwojowy Centrum Techniki Morskiej, has finalized a contract with the Armaments Agency. This agreement, valued at over 1 billion zlotys (approximately $241.46 million), was officially signed at the Naval Academy in Gdynia. The signing ceremony was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, marking a pivotal moment for Poland’s naval modernization efforts.
Details of the Rescue Ship Project
The new rescue ship is part of the RATOWNIK program, which falls under the Polish Armed Forces’ technical modernization plan. The project aims to enhance the operational capabilities of the Polish Navy, particularly in submarine support operations. The vessel is designed to be approximately 96 meters long and 19 meters wide. It will have a range of up to 6,000 nautical miles and a maximum speed of 16 knots, making it a formidable asset for maritime rescue missions.
The ship will accommodate a crew of 100, along with an additional nine staff members. This capacity is essential for ensuring that the vessel can operate effectively in various scenarios, including emergency rescues and support for naval operations. The RATOWNIK initiative is part of a broader strategy that includes other projects, such as the MIECZNIK multi-purpose frigates and KORMORAN II minehunters. These initiatives collectively aim to bolster Poland’s naval defense capabilities and enhance maritime security.
Strategic Importance of the Agreement
The agreement represents a significant milestone for Poland’s maritime sector. Jan Grabowski, a member of the PGZ Management Board, emphasized the importance of this contract. He stated that the implementation of the RATOWNIK program will improve the skills, technologies, and knowledge within the Polish shipbuilding and arms industry. This collaboration between the Polish Navy and domestic companies is seen as a generational opportunity to develop competencies for both surface and underwater units.
The RATOWNIK program aligns with the ongoing construction of three multi-purpose frigates under the MIECZNIK program. This strategic partnership aims to strengthen Poland’s maritime security and support allied efforts in the region. As the Polish Navy continues to modernize its fleet, the new rescue ship will play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and security of maritime operations in Polish waters and beyond.
