New measurement range vessels strengthen the Polish Navy’s technical fleet

Enhancing the Navy’s invisible shield

While not combat units, M-27 and M-28 play a crucial role in one of the most technically demanding areas of naval operations — the reduction and monitoring of ships’ physical signatures.

The Control and Measurement Range is a specialized support unit responsible for measuring, analysing, and minimising ships’ physical fields — including magnetic, electric, and acoustic emissions.

Such work directly contributes to fleet survivability: by properly controlling these physical signatures, vessels become less detectable to naval mines and modern sensor systems. In practice, this means safer operations and reduced risk when operating in contested maritime environments.

Purpose-built craft for technical operations

The newly introduced boats are designed for supporting field measurements, deploying sensors, and assisting in the demagnetisation process of naval vessels. Their lightweight, non-metallic construction allows them to safely manoeuvre in close proximity to ships undergoing magnetic calibration or physical field compensation procedures.

Compact, agile, and equipped for precise technical work, M-27 and M-28 will expand the operational flexibility of the PKP MW. They will also improve the ability to service, calibrate, and maintain the Polish Navy’s physical field reduction infrastructure — a key component of modern naval warfare support.

Technical modernisation through specialised assets

The commissioning of these new vessels reflects a broader effort by the Polish Navy to modernise not only its combat capabilities but also its technical and measurement infrastructure.

While public attention often focuses on frigates, minehunters, or submarines, it is units like PKP MW that ensure these ships remain “invisible” to threats and ready for operational deployment.

According to Navy officials, “These are not combat ships, nor are they the largest, but the potential they bring to the Navy’s operations is of great importance.”

The integration of M-27 and M-28 strengthens the Navy’s ability to sustain its fleet safely and effectively — a silent but vital contribution to national defence at sea.