Media: Poland deploys South Korean K2 tanks near Russian border

Poland has stationed South Korean-made K2 tanks in Braniewo, just a few kilometres from the border with Russia's Kaliningrad region.

Major Magdalena Kościńska, spokesperson for the 16th Pomeranian Mechanised Division, confirmed the deployment in a statement to the Polish Press Agency (PAP), Caliber.Az reports.

"The 9th Brigade has received seven tanks as part of the first delivery. Another shipment is expected by the end of this year. Currently, there are eight fully trained crews who have completed training with instructors from the 20th Mechanised Brigade," Kościńska said.

Notably, Poland is on track to sign a deal with South Korea soon that would allow the production of K2 tanks in Poland, bolstering its military capabilities. Polish President Andrzej Duda announced the potential agreement during a visit to Busan, South Korea, highlighting its significance in strengthening Poland’s defences amid rising tensions in Europe, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Poland aims to expedite the deployment of K2 tanks, with South Korea’s Hyundai Rotem already contracted to deliver 1,000 tanks, though only 180 have been signed so far. Duda confirmed that most of the major issues had been resolved, with only the location of the production facility remaining to be determined.

This deal follows heightened concerns in Europe about security, especially after the US revealed that North Korea may have sent 3,000 troops to Russia for potential deployment in Ukraine.

The South Korean government has yet to comment on the deal.

By Aghakazim Guliyev