Poland Modernizing Piorun MANPAD Systems
According to Polish media reports, upgraded prototype versions of the Piorun MANPAD have undergone successful tests on the firing range. The tested systems serve as a technology demonstrator for new guidance systems which may extend the range of the missiles by around 10-15% and significantly improve the weapon’s resistance to jamming and ability to hit small targets such as drones with very small heat signatures. The improved missile is also more efficient with its use of rocket fuel and is able to fly slightly faster.
The results of the recent tests show that Polish industry has made significant progress in this technology area and that it should soon be ready for use on the battlefield. New guidance technology will be a key feature in Poland’s next generation Piorun NG MANPAD system as well as other short range air defense systems like the next generation Grzmot (which, at 12km, has around twice the range of current generation Polish MANPADS and is meant to be able to shoot down attack helicopters from outside their range). Moreover, the new guidance technology is likely to be relevant in the development of other weapons systems such as anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs).
The current Piorun MANPAD system, manufactured by MESKO SA, was introduced into Polish service in 2019 as a result of modernization efforts for the older Grom system (which itself was based on the much older Soviet Igla system). Piorun has seen export success with Slovakia, Norway, Latvia, Estonia and the United States all ordering the system. The system was also one of the first modern Western Air defense systems to be delivered to Ukraine where they have reportedly performed well. According to Ukrainian sources, Orlan UAVs, KA-52 and Mi-24 helicopters, as well as SU-25 and SU-34 aircraft, have all been downed by the system. The Piorun can also be configured to be fired from a dedicated vehicle such as the Polish SPZR Poprad system.