Lithuania, in collaboration with Poland and two other European countries, has applied for partial funding from the European Union to jointly purchase Piorun short-range mobile air defense systems.
According to a press release from the Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of Lithuania, this initiative aims to leverage the European Defense Industrial Development Programme (EDIRPA) to strengthen the EU’s defense capabilities through joint acquisitions.
“We are pleased to join the purchase of Piorun short-range mobile air defense systems. Strengthening our air defense is one of our top priorities, and this upcoming acquisition is exciting, as is our collaboration with our close ally and neighbor, Poland,” said Lithuanian Defense Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas.
The proposal follows a recent visit to Vilnius by Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, during which Poland extended the offer to Lithuania to participate in the procurement of the Polish-made Piorun systems.
Currently, Lithuania operates the older version of the Polish-manufactured Grom air defense system.
The Piorun MANPADS (Man-Portable Air Defense Systems) is designed to destroy aircraft, helicopters, UAVs, and cruise missiles. The missile is equipped with a proximity fuse that allows it to destroy targets upon close approach. The modernized launcher includes a day sight and a thermal vision sight, enhancing its effectiveness during night operations.
The missile set also features a new launching mechanism that allows for pursuit-collision mode selection, target type identification, weather condition adaptation, and communication with optical and thermal imaging sights. Additionally, it can be equipped with a friend-or-foe identification system and an authorization system.