Hyundai Rotem Nears $6.5B Poland K2 Tank Export Deal

South Korea and Poland have concluded negotiations for a significant follow-up contract involving the export of 180 additional K2 Black Panther main battle tanks, potentially valued at around $6.5 billion. This deal builds on the initial 2022 agreement under which Hyundai Rotem is delivering the first 180 tanks to Poland, with deliveries scheduled through 2025. The new contract includes a mix of tanks produced by Hyundai Rotem and locally assembled K2PL variants in Poland, supported by the establishment of a local manufacturing base, enhancing Poland's defense industrial capabilities. The K2 tank is a modern, highly mobile 55-tonne vehicle featuring advanced fire control systems, strong armor, and compatibility with Polish military systems, including interoperability with M1A2 Abrams tanks. This expanded deal aligns with broader European defense initiatives and marks Seoul's largest single arms export contract to date, reinforcing South Korea's growing role in the European defense market amid heightened regional security concerns. Additionally, the contract includes maintenance, repair, and auxiliary support vehicles, further solidifying the strategic partnership between the two nations.