Piorun (missile)

The Piorun Portable Anti-Aircraft Missile System is produced by the Mesko company and was created as a result of the GROM system modernization carried out in 2010–15. As part of the modernization, the effectiveness of the homing warhead was significantly improved by increasing the sensitivity of detection, which increased the distance at which the missile is able to target and hit the target, increased resistance to interference was obtained, a proximity fuze was used, an access authorization system and the set for fire was adapted in night conditions.[2][3][4]

In 2016, the Ministry of National Defence signed a contract for the purchase of 420 launchers (launch mechanisms) and 1,300 rockets for the Armed Forces of the Republic of Poland, planned for 2017–2020 delivery. Due to delays caused by technical problems with the propulsion system, the delivery of rockets and launch devices began in 2019 after successful testing. In 2020, Piorun missiles were fired from Poprad self-propelled anti-aircraft missile systems. The missiles are used not only by Poprad, but also by anti-aircraft missile and artillery system PSR-A Pilica.[2][1]

In 2022, Poland announced the rapid supply of Ukraine with Pioruns during the 2021–2022 Russo-Ukrainian crisis. [5]

•  Poland - by the end of 2021, about 730 missiles and 260 starting sets were delivered;
•  Ukraine[5] - undisclosed delivered in 2022.[6][7] The Ukrainian army, during the conduct of hostilities with the Russian actions, confirmed that some Russian planes (Su-34, Su-25) and helicopters (Mi-24) were shot down with Piorun sets;[8][9][10]