Poland’s state-run Armaments Group (PGZ) has signed a contract to develop a Ratownik (Lifeguard) rescue ship to support the Polish Navy’s future submarine operations.
Revealed at the Polish Naval Academy in Gdynia, the deal is part of Warsaw’s objective to expand the military’s naval fleet by the end of the decade, with the ordered vessel expected to operate alongside the incoming Miecznik (Swordfish) frigates and Kormoran II (Cormorant) minehunters.
Construction of the 1-billion-Polish-złoty ($241-million) Ratownik project will run from 2025 until 2029.
“On behalf of the [PGZ Naval Shipyard] crew, I would like to confirm our commitment to the Polish Navy: our team of specialists is fully prepared to implement this investment combining the latest technologies with our many years of experience,” PGZ Naval Shipyard Management Board President Marcin Ryngwelski stated.
“For us, the implementation of the “Ratownik” program is part of our mission to build Poland’s maritime security by providing it with the most modern ships. We are convinced that this project will prove the highest competences of the Polish shipbuilding industry in implementing even the most advanced projects for the Polish Armed Forces.
The Polish Ratownik Vessel
Warsaw’s Ratownik ship will have an overall length of 96 meters (315 feet) and a width of 19 meters (62 feet).
The vessel is designed to carry more than 100 personnel, including additional staff.
After commissioning, the system is expected to sail with a top speed of 16 knots (30 kilometers/18 miles per hour) and a range of 6,000 nautical miles (11,112 kilometers/6,905 miles).
