Poland to Localize Production of South African Armored Vehicles by OTT Technologies

Polish company Bumech has signed an agreement with South Africa’s OTT Technologies to localize production of armored vehicles in Poland, Military Africa reported.

Within the deal, licensed production of three models will be launched in Poland: the Puma M36, the LM series, and the Bulldog M34.

In the first stage, vehicles will be assembled from kits of finished components.

Later, production will shift to a full cycle using European-made parts, with a high share of localization in Poland.

More than 70% of components for the Polish-produced vehicles are expected to come from within the European Union. Localization will also include upgrades to transmissions and engines to ensure compliance with EU environmental and emissions standards.

Plans also call for the integration of new features, including anti-drone systems, to counter modern threats.

Bumech expects to produce three prototypes by the end of the first quarter of 2026 and to finalize a licensing agreement by October 2025.

The Puma M36 is a mine-resistant armored vehicle with STANAG 4569 protection standards, able to carry up to 12 people and reach speeds of 100 km/h.

The LM series is a lighter, more maneuverable vehicle designed for security units and patrols.

The Bulldog M34 is a multipurpose platform that can be configured as a personnel carrier, weapons carrier, or command module.

“Using our resources, infrastructure, and newly acquired know-how, we are entering the rapidly growing defense market. Cooperation with OTT Technologies opens new opportunities, allowing us to offer proven solutions produced locally in Poland,” Bumech Vice President Michał Kończak pointed out.

Militarnyi previously reported that the Polish company Mista presented the Margay armored personnel carrier, the successor to the Oncilla, at the MSPO 2025 defense exhibition.

The new vehicle incorporates modern features to improve protection, maneuverability, and firepower.