Poland Conducts First Live-Fire Patriot Test Under Wisła Programme

Poland : On 16 September 2025, the Polish Armed Forces successfully carried out the first live-fire exercise of the Patriot air and missile defence system acquired under the Wisła programme. The historic training took place at the Central Air Force Training Ground in Ustka during Iron Defender, the largest military exercise organised by Poland this year.

The firing involved the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) and a GEM-T interceptor, marking a critical milestone ahead of final certification. According to the Ministry of Defence, the system is expected to reach full combat readiness by the end of 2025, significantly enhancing Poland’s air and missile defence posture.

Launched in 2014, the Wisła programme is Poland’s most ambitious air defence modernisation effort, designed to ensure full NATO interoperability. The first phase, concluded in 2018 under a 16.6 billion złoty (approximately $4.65 billion) contract, included two Patriot PAC-3+ batteries, M903A2 launchers, AN/MPQ-65 radars, and PAC-3 MSE interceptors. Deliveries began in 2022, and by early 2023 Poland had received 16 M903 launchers produced domestically by PGZ. In December 2024, the system reached Basic Operational Capability with the 3rd Warsaw Air Defence Brigade, making Poland the 15th operator of the Patriot system worldwide.

The second phase, signed in September 2023 and worth 47.6 billion złoty (around $13.3 billion), will add six more batteries, 48 launchers, and 644 PAC-3 MSE interceptors, as well as the advanced LTAMDS radars. Deliveries are scheduled between 2026 and 2029, with Huta Stalowa Wola contracted to build 48 launchers domestically, boosting Poland’s defence industry.

Polish companies are already playing a growing role in the programme. WZL-1 in Dęblin has started producing launch tubes for the PAC-3 MSE missiles, while upgraded Toruń workshops will serve as the country’s main air defence service centre. Additional acquisitions include MCC-1 mobile communication nodes and command cabins, which will expand Poland’s battlefield command capabilities.

At the heart of the system lies the PAC-3 MSE interceptor, designed for hit-to-kill engagements against ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones. With a range of about 100 km, it provides a powerful shield against high-altitude manoeuvring threats. Combined with Poland’s Narew and Pilica+ systems, the Patriot forms a layered defence network, among the most advanced within NATO.

The successful test at Iron Defender marks a decisive step for Poland’s air defence. As Phase II progresses, Poland is set to field one of the most capable and integrated missile defence systems in Europe, strengthening both national security and NATO’s collective deterrence on the eastern flank.