Germany considers purchasing anti-aircraft systems

Germany has expressed preliminary interest in purchasing Poland's Piorun portable anti-aircraft system. This was announced by Polish Deputy Minister of Defense Cezary Tomczyk, who emphasized that this is proof of the growing reputation of the Polish defense industry. Berlin has not officially commented on the information.

Poland plans to allocate approximately PLN 200 billion to defense this year, which represents about five percent of GDP. This is in response to the continuing threat from Russia in connection with the war in Ukraine.

Part of the funds will go towards modernizing the army, but Warsaw is also strengthening domestic production and counting on arms exports.

The Piorun system, manufactured at the Mesko and Jelcz plants, is designed to destroy low-flying targets and is also used by the Ukrainian army. After Sweden, which announced its purchase for more than $320 million last year, Germany could become another major customer.

(reuters, mja)