In a move to enhance its very short-range air defense (VSHORAD) capabilities amid rising drone threats in Europe, Sweden has selected the Polish-made Piorun man-portable air defense system (MANPADS). The decision marks a notable shift in Swedish procurement strategy and underscores the increasing reliance on agile counter-UAV solutions across NATO-aligned nations.
Swedish Armed Forces Choose Piorun for VSHORAD Role
The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) confirmed in early September 2025 that it has signed a contract with Poland’s Mesko S.A. for the delivery of an undisclosed number of Piorun MANPADS. The system will be deployed by infantry units as part of Sweden’s broader effort to modernize its ground-based air defense (GBAD) posture.
The Piorun was selected following evaluations that prioritized effectiveness against small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), helicopters, and low-flying fixed-wing aircraft. According to FMV officials, the system’s proven combat performance in Ukraine and its ability to engage targets with low thermal signatures were key factors in the acquisition decision.
While financial details remain confidential, Swedish media reports suggest that deliveries are expected to begin by mid-2026. Integration into existing force structures will be managed by the Swedish Army’s Air Defence Regiment (Lv6), based in Halmstad.
Piorun System Overview and Capabilities
The Piorun (“Thunderbolt”) is an upgraded variant of the earlier Grom MANPADS family developed by Poland’s Mesko S.A., part of PGZ Group. Entering service with Polish forces around 2019–2020, it features improved seeker sensitivity, enhanced resistance to countermeasures, and a longer effective range compared to its predecessor.
- Range: Up to 6.5 km
- Altitude envelope: Up to 4 km
- Seeker type: Dual-band IR/UV passive homing
- Warhead: High-explosive fragmentation
- Weight (launcher + missile): ~16.5 kg
Piorun is designed for single-operator use and can be deployed rapidly from shoulder-fired or tripod-mounted configurations. It includes a modernized gripstock with a friend-or-foe identification system and night-fighting capability through integration with thermal sights or image intensifiers.
Combat Proven Performance Drives Export Success
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has provided real-world validation of several modern European air defense systems—none more so than the Piorun. Ukrainian forces have used it extensively since early 2022 with reported success against both rotary-wing aircraft like Ka-52 “Alligator” attack helicopters and various classes of UAVs including Orlan-10 reconnaissance drones.
This combat record has spurred export interest across NATO and partner nations seeking cost-effective VSHORAD solutions. In addition to Sweden, countries such as Estonia, Norway, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovakia, and even the United States have either procured or evaluated the system under Foreign Military Financing or bilateral agreements.
A Shift from Domestic Systems? Saab’s Role Remains Unclear
The selection of a foreign-made missile system over domestic options raises questions about Saab’s role in Sweden’s evolving GBAD architecture. While Saab remains central to medium-range systems like RBS 70 NG—a laser-guided SHORAD platform—the adoption of infrared-guided MANPADS like Piorun suggests a diversification strategy rather than replacement.
Prior reports indicate that Saab had explored upgrades or alternatives within its own portfolio but may not currently offer an IR-guided shoulder-launched weapon comparable in weight or cost-effectiveness to Piorun. This procurement could therefore complement rather than compete with existing Saab offerings within layered defense concepts.
NATO Interoperability and Strategic Implications
Piorun’s adoption enhances Sweden’s interoperability with NATO allies ahead of its full integration into NATO command structures following accession ratification in early 2024. Standardizing on field-proven systems already used across Eastern Europe simplifies logistics during joint operations or rotational deployments under NATO Enhanced Forward Presence missions.
This move also strengthens Poland-Sweden defense industrial ties at a time when regional security cooperation is intensifying due to Russia’s continued aggression along NATO’s eastern flank. It aligns with broader European trends toward decentralized air defense networks capable of countering mass drone swarms—a lesson drawn directly from current conflicts.
Outlook: Integration Timeline and Future Enhancements
The first batches of Pioruns are expected by mid-2026 following training cycles for operators beginning as early as Q1 2026 at Lv6 facilities. FMV may pursue additional acquisitions depending on operational feedback from initial field deployments during exercises such as Aurora or Cold Response.
Future enhancements could include integration into vehicle-mounted platforms for mobile SHORAD roles or coupling with radar cueing via Saab Giraffe AMB systems under C4ISR frameworks already used by Swedish forces. There is also potential for co-development initiatives between Mesko and Nordic partners should sustainment agreements evolve into deeper industrial cooperation.
Conclusion
The acquisition of Polish-made Piorun MANPADS reflects Sweden’s pragmatic approach toward enhancing its air defense capabilities amid evolving asymmetric threats—particularly from UAVs operating at low altitudes within contested environments. As drone warfare continues redefining battlefield dynamics across Europe and beyond, lightweight yet lethal systems like the Piorun are becoming indispensable tools within modern military arsenals.
