PILICA Anti Aircraft Systems Boost Polish Defense
In a significant stride towards enhancing national security, the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ SA) recently celebrated the completion of the delivery of all PILICA Anti-Aircraft Missile and Artillery Systems to the Polish Army on November 30. The culmination of the fourth, fifth, and sixth systems, now adapted for series production, marks a pivotal moment in the deployment of these Very Short Range Air Defense (VSHORAD) systems commissioned in November 2016.
Unveiling the Power of PILICA
The comprehensive delivery includes six PSR-A PILICA sets, each featuring six fire units with artillery tractors, a command post, radar station, and two transport and ammunition vehicles. This independent project, driven by national production capabilities, significantly bolsters Poland’s defense prowess. The integrated PILICA sets exhibit far greater efficacy and efficiency in countering air threats compared to a singular ZU-23-2 cannon, showcasing the advancement in military technology.
Henryk Labedz, President of the Management Board of ZM Tarnów, emphasized, “The PILICA missile and artillery system stands as a cornerstone in Polish anti-aircraft defense, with ZM Tarnów serving as its integrator within the established consortium.”
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A Collaborative Triumph
Sebastian Chwalek, President of the Management Board of PGZ SA, highlighted the significance of PSR-A PILICA as a foundational component of the multi-layered, domestically-sourced air defense system for the Polish Armed Forces. This achievement not only emphasizes the prowess of the PILICA system but also exemplifies effective cooperation within the Polish Armaments Group.
The ongoing evolution of the PILICA system to PILICA+ signifies a commitment to providing the Polish Armed Forces with cutting-edge anti-aircraft and anti-missile defense systems. A recent 2023 contract solidifies this commitment, securing 22 PILICA Anti-Aircraft Missile and Artillery Systems, including 16 new units and enhancements to six existing units to meet PILICA+ standards.
Future-Ready Defense
The PGZ-PILICA Consortium, comprising entities within the PGZ Capital Group – PGZ SA, PIT-RADWAR SA, PCO SA, and Zakłady Mechaniczne Tarnów SA as the integrator – stands as the contractor for the PILICA Anti-Aircraft Missile and Artillery System. This collaborative effort underscores a concerted push towards fortifying Poland’s defense capabilities through innovation and an unwavering commitment to national security.
As Poland continues to invest in state-of-the-art defense technology, the PILICA system emerges as a shining example of successful national production and collaboration. The commitment to evolving the PILICA system to PILICA+ showcases a forward-looking approach to safeguarding the nation against evolving air threats.
The completion of the PILICA Anti-Aircraft Missile and Artillery Systems delivery represents a significant achievement for the Polish Army, positioning them at the forefront of advanced air defense capabilities. The collaborative efforts within the PGZ-PILICA Consortium highlight Poland’s commitment to staying ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of military technology.
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