VILNIUS, Lithuania — June 5, 2023: The Lithuania Ministry of Defense (MoD) announced in a Tweet today that the country will continue strengthening its air defense capabilities by acquiring additional GROM Man-Portable Air-Defense System (MANPADS) missiles from Poland.
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Polish-made GROM MANPADS Man Portable Air Defense Missile System. (Picture source Army Recognition)
This latest decision aligns with Lithuania's ongoing efforts to modernize and upgrade its military capabilities amid a rapidly evolving regional security landscape. The announcement underscores the increasing importance of air defense for Lithuania, as the nation seeks to bolster its defense capabilities against potential threats.
The GROM MANPADS, produced by the Polish defense company Zakłady Mechaniczne Tarnów, is a highly sophisticated piece of military technology, known for its accuracy, versatility, and user-friendly interface. The system, designed to combat low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and UAVs, is portable and can be operated by a single soldier, making it a valuable asset in modern warfare.
The first contract for the acquisition of the GROM air defense missile weapon system was signed by Lithuania back in 2014, marking a significant step in building the country's modern military. The GROM MANPADS has since played a pivotal role in the nation's air defense strategy.
The Ministry has not disclosed the specific number of missiles to be procured or the timeline for their delivery. However, this announcement has come to symbolize the strong defense ties between Lithuania and Poland, indicating their shared commitment to maintaining regional stability and security.
Lithuania's decision to further invest in air defense capabilities demonstrates the nation's proactive approach to defense planning, ensuring the safety and security of its citizens. This move is a clear signal to potential adversaries that Lithuania remains steadfast in its commitment to defend its sovereignty.
The GROM Man-Portable Air-Defense System (MANPADS), developed by Polish defense company Zakłady Mechaniczne Tarnów, is an advanced short-range surface-to-air missile system capable of confronting a broad spectrum of aerial threats.
A key feature of the GROM system is its impressive operational range. The weapon can successfully engage aerial targets up to a range of 5.5 kilometers (roughly 3.4 miles). Furthermore, it has an effective altitude reach of about 3.5 kilometers (approximately 2.2 miles), enhancing its capability to neutralize threats at various heights.
This capability allows the GROM MANPADS to counter a diverse array of air threats, including low-flying aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), regardless of their altitude or distance. Its high level of accuracy and reliability enhances the system's effectiveness against these targets, offering a robust defensive solution.
Despite the sophisticated technology incorporated into the system, the GROM MANPADS remains lightweight and portable. This allows for rapid deployment and flexibility on the battlefield, with the system capable of being carried and operated by a single soldier.
Moreover, the GROM system features a user-friendly interface that ensures efficient usage even under high-pressure combat scenarios.
