Poland upgrades over a hundred APCS-70s for an unknown country
The Polish armoured vehicle company MISTA in Stalowa Wola, known for the production of Oncilla armoured vehicles, has completed the overhaul and modernisation of more than 150 Soviet BTR-70 armoured personnel carriers. According to Aeromag, Ukraine may be the final recipient of this equipment.
Here's What We Know
The source of the armoured personnel carriers remains unknown, as these vehicles have never been in service in Poland. In addition, neighbouring countries such as Moldova and Romania use different versions of armoured vehicles.
The upgrade to the BTR-70DI version included the replacement of old petrol engines with Western-made diesel engines and gearboxes. Side doors were also installed in the hull of the armoured personnel carriers instead of hatches in the lower part of the sides.
The upgraded vehicles have been fitted with modern surveillance equipment and thermal imaging sights, satellite navigation systems, electronic warfare systems and drone defence nets. The modernisation project is similar to the upgrade of the BRT-70DI developed by Mykolaiv Armoured Plant, with the installation of Iveco Tector engines and a six-speed manual transmission.
Upgraded BRT-70DI in Poland. Source: Rafał Bieńkowski
The photos of the upgraded vehicles show Ukrainian equipment: the PP-61 gunner's thermal imaging sight and the MBT driver's camera manufactured by Trimen, which are already used on other models of Ukrainian armoured vehicles.
Armoured personnel carriers of a similar configuration were previously seen in service with the 151st separate mechanised brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The Ukrainian military has praised the quality of the vehicles' repairs and upgrades, including their drone protection nets.
In addition, MISTA announced the supply of more than 200 Oncilla 4×4 armoured vehicles to Ukraine, which, according to the company, have proven to be effective in combat conditions.
Source: Aeromag
