The vehicle was unveiled at the International Defense Industry Exhibition (MSPO) in Kielce, with the rollout aimed exclusively at military, rescue, and logistic services rather than the civilian transport sector. The high-capacity truck was presented alongside officials including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, State Secretary in the Ministry of National Defense Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecki, and Deputy Minister of Development and Technology Michał Baranowski.
Return of the STAR Brand and the Hyperion 8×8 Debut
According to Interia Motoryzacja, the development of the Hyperion is the result of collaboration between the Polish branch of MAN, the WB Group, and Szczęśniak Pojazdy Specjalne. This strategic partnership is intended to ensure that domestic components account for more than 90 percent of the vehicle. The heavy terrain truck features four axles, permanent 8×8 all-wheel drive, a permissible total weight (DMC) of 41 tons, and a payload capacity of 19,500 kilograms. Propelled by an engine generating 540 horsepower, the platform is designed to handle inclines of up to 60 percent and can ford unassisted water obstacles up to 1.5 meters deep. The structure is engineered for a 20-year service life.
Specialized Equipment and Strategic Role
The newly introduced STAR Hyperion 8×8 serves as a heavy platform for specialized military modules, including the Gladius Unmanned Search and Strike System. As noted by the WB Group, the vehicle acts as a response to the requirements of the Polish Armed Forces, designed to offer flexibility and timely fulfillment of military orders. The platform is intended to serve as an alternative to Jelcz 8×8 trucks, deliveries for which have encountered delays in certain military programs.
The specific display vehicle featured a four-person armored cabin manufactured by Szczęśniak Pojazdy Specjalne, located in Bielsko-Biała. This cabin provides protection at STANAG Level 2 and incorporates a air filtration and ventilation system, a winch, a self-sealing fuel tank, and onboard diagnostics. In addition, the vehicle is configured to transport containers in 5-, 15-, and 20-foot lengths, alongside other specialized operational modules.
