European purchase of Polish Pioruns. Four countries interested

The Lithuanian Ministry of Defence has announced a joint purchase with Poland of Piorun portable anti-aircraft missile systems, manufactured by Mesko, a company from Skarżysko-Kamienna, part of the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ). It is not known exactly how many launchers and missiles will be purchased.

The fact that Poland proposed that Lithuania join the purchase of Polish Piorun air defence systems was announced at the beginning of July during the visit of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz to Vilnius.

– We are glad that we can participate in the purchase of mobile short-range anti-aircraft missile systems Piorun. Strengthening air defense is one of the most important tasks we set for ourselves. Therefore, the future purchase is as desirable as cooperation with our close ally and neighboring Poland – emphasizes Lithuanian Defense Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas.

Lightning with EU funding

As noted by defence24.pl, this purchase is to be co-financed from European Union funds under the EU EDIRPA program, which would cover 10-15 percent of the purchase value. However, in order for the order to qualify for this program, three EU countries must participate in it. This will not be a problem, because in addition to Poland and Lithuania, Latvia and Norway have joined the joint order.

The Piorun portable anti-aircraft missile systems are designed to combat low-flying aircraft such as airplanes, helicopters and drones. In the Polish Armed Forces they are used in the lowest layer of the air defense system at close ranges and low altitudes (VSHORAD) (Another Piorun anti-aircraft missile system in the Polish Army).

The Piorun is a modernized version of the Grom anti-tank guided missile system, which is also in service with the Polish Army. The modernization included a modified launch mechanism, a new homing head with greater sensitivity, and an optoelectronic sight mounted on a special rail. This increased the target acquisition capabilities, resistance to interference, and the range of fire to 5,500-6,500 meters at an altitude of 10 to 4,000 meters.