On Monday, October 9th, the 18th Mechanized Division (18. DZ) published on social media photographs of soldiers from the 5th Battalion of the 21st Podhale Riflemen Brigade (21. BSP) in new uniforms and equipment developed for the Advanced Individual Warfare System Tytan.
Climbing and mountain rescue – a typical training for the Podhale Highlanders. Climbing teaches responsibility and concentration, helps overcome one’s own physical and mental barriers. The training of soldiers from the 5th Battalion of the Podhale Riflemen took place in the characteristic rock formation of Kamień Leski in the Bieszczady Mountains, reads the post on the Iron Division’s social media portal on Facebook.
On September 12, 2022, the Ministry of National Defense informed through social media that from last autumn through the next year, soldiers of the 18th Mechanized Division will be testing prototype uniforms, ballistic-tactical vests, and helmets.
According to the information, soldiers were supposed to verify the durability, functionality, ergonomics, and thermal properties of the new equipment. As reported by the then spokesperson of the Armament Agency, Lieutenant Colonel Krzysztof Płatek:
Along with uniforms, new footwear designs will also be introduced, among other things. Tests will encompass color patterns in four variants: spring-summer, snowless autumn-winter, snowy winter, and urbanized terrain. The results will also provide insights into the potential need for and scope of pattern modifications. The uniforms will include new underwear, combat uniforms, footwear, thermal clothing, gloves, protectors, etc., as well as headgear. Yes, there is a prototype field cap, but in my opinion, its introduction will require broader consensus. The vest is modular and can be quickly supplemented towards a heavier variant providing an increased coverage area and higher level of protection.
The tests are being conducted on a sample of several hundred sets. The test results will not only allow for expediting the implementation procedure of new uniform and equipment designs into the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland but also for the effective implementation of any changes by the manufacturer, Protective Equipment Company Maskpol S.A., which is part of the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ). As announced, the tests are expected to conclude by the end of 2023.
Issues related to testing ballistic resistance, flammability, and waterproofness of materials, as well as thermal comfort, are simultaneously assessed in laboratory conditions as part of qualification tests, which are also expected to conclude by the end of 2023.
Positive results from both assessments will allow for the initiation of the acquisition process for the aforementioned equipment and its widespread use in the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland.
The uniform set will include: underwear, combat uniforms, footwear, thermal clothing, and additional items such as gloves, protectors, and headgear. The uniform will enable layering according to needs related to the operational area and prevailing weather conditions. Uniforms will be tested in new camouflage patterns in four color schemes: spring-summer, snowless autumn-winter, snowy winter, and urbanized terrain. This will allow for effective camouflage of soldiers in anticipated areas and combat conditions.
The ballistic-tactical vest will provide soldiers with high ballistic protection against the effects of projectile hits and fragments, as well as protection against direct cuts from a combat knife or bayonet, while maintaining the ability to move swiftly and perform combat tasks. The vest has been developed in accordance with the requirements of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland and NATO standards. Its modular configuration will allow for the assembly of a lighter variant prioritizing comfort, mobility, and long-term use, or a heavier one with increased ballistic protection.
The bulletproof helmet HBT-02 will provide high ballistic protection against the effects of projectile and shrapnel impact, and additionally, when using the face shield, it will increase the level of protection for soldiers performing roles such as a gunner. The helmet has been developed in accordance with the requirements of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland and NATO standards, and will contribute to improving soldiers’ survival on the battlefield and their combat effectiveness. Its design will allow for the simultaneous use of soldiers’ individual equipment, such as: gas mask, protective clothing, active hearing protectors, as well as devices for eye and face protection.
Photos: 18th Mechanized Division