The contract could be worth around 7 billion PLN and would form another element of the European SAFE program. Under the joint procurement, Piorun systems are also expected to be delivered to Lithuania, Latvia, and Norway. This would allow production to continue at a scale that has already exceeded 3,000 units. Importantly, the weapon has been successfully combat-proven in Ukraine, where its use has resulted in the destruction of numerous aerial targets operated by the Russian Federation.
Photos: Forsvaret
Details of the August contract will most likely be made public when the agreement is signed. Latvia and Norway are already users of the Piorun MANPADS, with relevant contracts concluded in 2022–2023 and deliveries beginning shortly thereafter. Lithuania will become a new operator, having previously purchased Grom MANPADS.
MESKO S.A. and CRW Telesystem-Mesko Sp. z o.o. are currently working on a new generation of the Piorun MANPADS, designated Piorun 2. The planned changes may include a new multispectral seeker, a new control unit and proximity sensor, a modernized warhead, as well as a redesigned transport-launch container. In addition, through the use of new materials and structural optimization, the designers plan to reduce the weight of the complete system.
The work is being carried out, among other reasons, in response to requirements expressed by the Armament Agency, which has launched preliminary market consultations concerning a next-generation MANPADS. Three contractors have joined this phase: MESKO S.A., Roketsan, and Castelior. According to the prospective contracting authority, the procurement options include the possible purchase of up to 600 launchers/launch mechanisms and up to 3,000 missiles.