Poland has scored a notable success in defense exports as Mesko, part of the state-owned PGZ group, secured Norway’s selection of the Piorun man-portable air-defense system (MANPADS). The decision follows a two-year research and evaluation campaign, culminating in a contract that introduces a portable short-range air-defense (SHORAD) capability to Norway for the first time. The deal underlines both countries’ intent to strengthen front-line air protection against fast-evolving aerial threats.

The agreement—signed in November 2022 between the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (NDMA) and Mesko—is valued by Norwegian media at roughly €30 million. NDMA’s Air Systems Chief, Brig. Gen. Jarle Nergård, emphasized that Piorun offered the best overall balance of schedule, performance, and cost, meeting all operational and technical criteria set by the agency. Mesko noted that the award followed an open, competitive tender run by NDMA, further validating the system’s maturity and value proposition.

Technically, Piorun stands out among low-altitude air-defense solutions. The system can engage targets up to approximately 4,000 meters in altitude, covering aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, and guided munitions. An upgraded launcher with enhanced sights and ergonomics enables effective use at night and in degraded weather, expanding the envelope in which Norwegian operators can counter difficult, low-flying targets. Portability and quick setup give small units organic air-defense cover during dispersed or mobile operations.

For Norway, the acquisition diversifies air-defense layers and provides rapidly deployable protection for critical assets and maneuver forces. For Poland, the deal represents a milestone in defense-industrial export performance, showcasing the country’s ability to compete internationally in a demanding category. As deliveries proceed, the contract is expected to drive training, logistics setup, and sustainment cooperation, laying the groundwork for potential follow-on orders and deeper Nordic-Polish defense collaboration.