We’ll cover: • How it works: The Piorun uses an advanced infrared seeker head with improved sensitivity and counter-countermeasure capabilities. That means it can lock onto heat signatures even when an aircraft is trying to spoof it with flares. • Its origins: Born out of Poland’s GROM program in the 1990s, the Piorun is an evolution: faster missile, longer range, better electronics, specifically designed with Russian aircraft in mind. • Battlefield performance: The Piorun has already been used by Ukrainian forces with impressive hit rates against Russian helicopters and drones, earning a reputation as one of the most reliable man-portable air defense systems in Europe. • Why Ukraine wants more: MANPADS like the Piorun give small infantry units the ability to punch far above their weight, denying Russian pilots the ability to operate safely at low or medium altitudes.