At MSPO 2025 in Kielce, Poland, local manufacturer Mista officially debuted the Margay 4×4 armored personnel carrier, signaling its entry into the defense industry with a fully indigenous design. This development aligns with Poland’s strategy of building a self-reliant defense ecosystem and boosting its role as a key NATO contributor.
The Margay 4×4 is engineered for patrol, convoy protection, internal security, and light combat operations. It offers STANAG 4569 Level 2 ballistic and mine protection, with growth potential for higher protection levels through modular armor packages. Its monocoque steel hull uses angular architecture to deflect blast waves and reduce radar/thermal signature, enhancing survivability in mine-resistant missions.
Power comes from a 250 kW (335 hp) WEICHAI diesel engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and a two-speed transfer case providing full-time 4×4 capability. Independent suspension with four hydraulic shock absorbers per axle delivers superior off-road performance and ride comfort. Braking is handled by four-wheel disc brakes, and a central tire inflation system (CTIS) allows on-the-fly tire pressure adjustments.
The vehicle accommodates two crew members and up to six dismounts, with bulletproof vision blocks, gun ports, and a hydraulically assisted rear door for rapid egress. Its roof-mounted remote weapon station (RWS) supports 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine guns, plus smoke grenade launchers for obscuration and soft-kill defense.
Mista emphasizes modularity — Margay variants are planned for command post, medevac, border patrol, surveillance, and riot-control roles. The prototype also includes a heavy-duty winch, reinforced external spare wheel mount, and integrated electronics supporting comms and mission systems.
From a strategic viewpoint, the unveiling of Margay reflects Poland’s push to modernize its territorial and border forces, while offering international customers a cost-effective alternative to Western 4×4 platforms like the Oshkosh JLTV and Plasan SandCat. Serial production will depend on field testing and early procurement deals, with Mista targeting Central Europe, the Balkans, Africa, and Asia as key export markets.
