Eastern European Countries Make Joint Purchase of PIORUN MANPADS Amid Fears of Russian Aggression.

According to information published by the Estonian Government on November 15, 2024, Estonia, Lithuania, Norway, and Poland have taken a step to strengthen regional air defense by signing a joint declaration for the procurement of the PIORUN short-range man-portable air defense system (MANPADS). The agreement, finalized in Warsaw, entrusts Poland’s defense procurement agency with leading the acquisition process due to its proven expertise in managing rocket system projects, including quality control and testing. The PIORUN system, produced by Poland’s MESKO, is designed to counter aerial threats such as aircraft, helicopters, and drones. With a range of up to 6.5 kilometers, it offers a reliable and effective solution for short-range air defense needs.
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Strengthening regional defense: Estonia, Poland, Lithuania, and Norway sign a landmark agreement for the joint procurement of PIORUN air defense systems. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

Estonia highlighted the importance of collaboration with its regional partners, noting that joint procurement provides economies of scale, faster delivery times, and streamlined use of engineering resources. This partnership strengthens the shared goal of enhancing the air defense capabilities of the participating nations.

The signing ceremony brought together key representatives, including Estonia’s Magnus-Valdemar Saar, Director General of the Estonian Centre for Defence Investments; Poland’s Secretary of State Paweł Bejda; Lithuania’s Vice Minister of National Defence Monika Korolovienė; and Norway’s National Armaments Director Rolf Kjos.

Poland’s role in this project extends beyond procurement leadership, as its defense industry plays a vital role in supporting allied nations. Polish companies MESKO and WB Group are integral to supplying and upgrading defense systems, while Nitro-Chem contributes key explosive components for ammunition production.

Earlier this year, Estonia received PIORUN systems as part of its effort to enhance its defense forces’ capabilities. Additionally, modernization projects for Estonia’s ZU-23 anti-aircraft guns were undertaken by WB Group.

The Piorun MANPADS (Man-Portable Air-Defense System), developed in Poland, has proven to be a vital asset for Ukraine's defense against Russian aerial threats during the ongoing conflict. Specifically designed to target low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), the Piorun has significantly enhanced Ukraine's air defense capabilities. Poland provided Ukraine with an undisclosed number of these systems in early 2022, aiming to strengthen the country's defenses amidst escalating hostilities.

Ukrainian forces have demonstrated the system’s effectiveness in numerous engagements, successfully neutralizing various Russian aircraft. Reports from the battlefield highlight its use against advanced fighter jets like the Su-34 and Su-25, as well as attack helicopters such as the Mi-24 and Ka-52. One notable incident in March 2022 saw Ukrainian paratroopers down a Russian Mi-24 helicopter using the Piorun, emphasizing its capability to effectively counter rotary-wing threats. The system’s advanced infrared guidance, combined with improved resistance to countermeasures, has been instrumental in overcoming sophisticated defense systems deployed by Russian aircraft.

With a range of up to 6.5 kilometers and an operational altitude of 4,000 meters, the Piorun offers Ukrainian forces a tool against low-altitude threats. Its portability allows for rapid deployment and repositioning, ensuring adaptability in the dynamic battlefield environment. These features have not only enhanced Ukraine's ability to contest Russian air superiority but also drawn international attention to the system’s effectiveness.