Germany is reportedly moving toward the acquisition of Poland’s domestically produced Piorun MANPADS, marking a potential expansion of defense cooperation between the two nations.
Deputy Defense Minister Cezary Tomczyk announced that Berlin has shown early interest in the system, though details regarding pricing, quantities, and delivery timelines remain undisclosed. He emphasized that Germany’s interest highlights the growing global recognition of Poland’s defense industry innovations and their strategic value.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk further revealed that while some of the systems are intended for Germany’s military, others are expected to be transferred to Ukraine.
System Overview
Developed by Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa and its subsidiaries Mesko and Jelcz, the Piorun entered service in 2019 as an advanced short-range air defense solution. It is capable of engaging low-flying aircraft, rotary-wing platforms, and drones.
The launcher spans roughly 2 meters and carries a high-explosive warhead utilizing octogen and aluminum powder. Powered by a solid-propellant rocket motor, the missile can strike targets at altitudes up to 4,000 meters and ranges from 400 meters to 6.5 kilometers, traveling at speeds approaching Mach 2.
Already battle-tested in Ukraine’s war against Russia, the Piorun has also been exported to several NATO and partner nations, including Belgium, Sweden, Norway, the Baltic states, and the United States.
