Germany Eyes Piorun MANPADS Acquisition To Counter Drone Threat

Germany Evaluates Piorun MANPADS To Strengthen Short-Range Air Defense

Germany is considering the acquisition of the Piorun MANPADS to enhance its short-range air defense capabilities against drones and other low-altitude threats.

Berlin is examining the Polish-developed system as part of broader efforts to modernize ground-based air defense. The potential procurement comes as European militaries reassess force protection requirements in light of recent conflicts and the growing use of unmanned aerial systems on the battlefield.

Addressing Low-Altitude Drone Threats

The Piorun MANPADS, developed by Mesko, is a shoulder-fired, infrared-guided surface-to-air missile system designed to engage low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles.

German defense planners have increasingly emphasized the need for effective counter drone measures. Small and medium sized drones, often operating at low altitude and low speed, present detection and engagement challenges for traditional air defense systems optimized for higher performance targets.

By adding the Piorun MANPADS to its inventory, Germany would bolster its very short-range air defense layer. This tier is critical for protecting forward deployed forces, critical infrastructure, and maneuver units from sudden aerial threats.

Operational Experience In Ukraine

The Piorun MANPADS has gained attention following its operational use in Ukraine. Polish authorities and Ukrainian officials have credited the system with successful engagements against various aerial targets, including helicopters and unmanned platforms.

While Germany has not formally announced a contract, the evaluation reflects confidence in the system’s performance under combat conditions. Real-world data from Ukraine has influenced procurement decisions across Europe, particularly in the area of short-range air defense.

Germany’s Broader Air Defense Strategy

Germany is undertaking a comprehensive review of its air defense architecture. In recent years, Berlin has committed to strengthening layered air and missile defense through national initiatives and multinational cooperation.

The potential Piorun MANPADS acquisition would complement higher-tier systems such as the IRIS-T SLM, which provides medium-range air defense coverage. Together, such systems form a layered structure designed to address threats ranging from drones to cruise missiles.

German officials have repeatedly stressed the importance of closing capability gaps in short-range air defense, particularly for ground forces. The evolving threat environment, marked by the widespread use of loitering munitions and small drones, has accelerated this effort.

Strengthening European Defense Cooperation

A possible German purchase of the Piorun MANPADS would also underscore growing defense cooperation within Europe. Poland has expanded its defense industrial footprint in recent years, positioning itself as a supplier of land and air defense systems to allied nations.

For Berlin, sourcing the Piorun MANPADS from a European partner aligns with broader efforts to reinforce regional defense industrial resilience and interoperability among NATO members.

As discussions continue, the Piorun MANPADS remains a prominent option in Germany’s effort to enhance short-range protection against emerging aerial threats.