Critical milestone for Poland’s Miecznik program as ORP Wicher’s 1,400-ton bow megablock delivered in Gdynia

Heavy-lift precision operation in the port of Gdynia

The megablock left Crist’s production hall in the early hours of December 4th. Using multi-axle self-propelled modular transporters (SPMTs), the block was maneuvered onto a dedicated barge and moved approximately 800 meters through the port basin toward PGZ Stocznia Wojenna.

Although the distance was short, the operation required extensive coordination between shipyard teams, port authorities, and heavy-transport specialists. Moving a structure of this scale—62 meters long and 16 meters high—represents one of the most technically demanding logistics tasks in the entire shipbuilding cycle.

Entering the final hull-assembly phase

Under the Miecznik program, the three Polish frigates are being built using advanced modular construction. Crist Shipyard is responsible for the bow blocks, while PGZ Stocznia Wojenna constructs the midship and aft sections. With the bow megablock now on site, PGZ can begin the hull-integration stage, where the ship’s main structural modules will be aligned, joined, and welded into a complete hull.

According to the current schedule, the fully assembled hull of ORP Wicher is expected to be launched in August 2026. This keeps the program on track for delivery of the first frigate to the Polish Navy in the 2028–2029 timeframe.

Strengthening domestic naval shipbuilding capacity

The operation highlights the growing capabilities of Poland’s naval shipbuilding sector. The Miecznik program combines domestic engineering expertise, modular construction techniques, and international technology transfer to deliver a new generation of multi-mission frigates.

Both Crist Shipyard and PGZ Stocznia Wojenna emphasize that the successful transport of the bow megablock demonstrates Poland’s ability to handle complex naval construction to NATO standards. It also reinforces the program’s role as a catalyst for industrial and technological development within the country.

ORP Wicher takes shape

With the bow unit now positioned at PGZ Stocznia Wojenna, ORP Wicher is entering its most dynamic construction phase. Once the hull is fully assembled, outfitting will accelerate—including installation of the superstructure, combat systems, propulsion components, and electronic suites.

ORP Wicher will be followed by the remaining two frigates of the class, ORP Burza and ORP Huragan. For the Polish Navy, the Miecznik program represents the largest surface-combatant acquisition in decades, and the megablock transfer is a clear sign that the new fleet is steadily approaching readiness.