Defense News ,Europe :- On January 12, the Georgian Ministry of Defence made a fresh agreement with Mesko, a Polish defense company linked to the state-owned PGZ conglomerate. This deal focuses on getting air defense systems, although specific details are still under wraps.
While the Georgian Ministry hasn't shared all the details, sources in Poland suggest that Mesko's main product in this category is the Piorun man-portable air defense system (MANPADS). The Piorun system has proven its effectiveness in intense conflicts, particularly in Ukraine.
Georgia has some history with Polish-made MANPADS. In 2007, they ordered 30 launchers and 100 missiles of the Grom MANPADS from Mesko. These were delivered in 2008, just before the conflict with Russia. During the war, Georgian Armed Forces successfully used the Grom system to take down Russian aircraft and helicopters.
The Piorun air defense system is an upgraded version of the Grom system, with important improvements. It has caught the attention of various countries, including the United States, Estonia, Norway, Latvia, and Moldova, who have signed contracts for this advanced weapon system. Moreover, Poland has donated some Piorun systems to Ukraine.
It's worth noting that the Armed Forces of Lithuania are already using the Grom systems, showing the widespread interest and application of these defense technologies.
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