The launch event took place on Thursday at Military Aviation Works 1 (WZL1), a unit of the state-owned defense entity Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), located in Dęblin, eastern Lubelskie province.
WZL1 announced that production has already commenced, with the first order nearing completion as the company awaits export approval.
Bartłomiej Kacperczyk, the director of WZL1’s Dęblin plant, highlighted the high demand for the launch tubes. "Demand is so great that we can safely think about increasing production," Kacperczyk said. He indicated that while the current production capacity is still being developed, a yearly output of 150 launch tubes is "realistic."
As part of its offset absorption costs, WZL1 has invested in constructing a 2,500-square-meter production hall and has hired over a dozen additional staff. The company plans to employ at least 40 to 50 more workers, adding to its current workforce of 250.
The factory has received certification from both the U.S. government and Lockheed Martin, allowing it to produce these components commercially under an offset arrangement linked to Poland’s procurement of the Patriot system.
Last year, Poland finalized the deal for up to 48 Patriot PAC-3 launchers and 644 PAC-3 MSE missiles from the United States. This contract, valued at up to USD 15 billion, includes offset agreements that will see the establishment of service, repair, and production facilities in Poland to support the country's 'Wisła' medium-range air defense program.
(jh)
Source: PAP