First containers for Patriot missiles manufactured in Poland

Poland is joining the global supply chain for Patriot PAC-3 MSE missiles by delivering the first transport and launch containers to Lockheed Martin.

Lockheed Martin Europe has announced the receipt of the first batch of containers manufactured by Wojskowe Zakłady Lotnicze Nr 1 (WZL-1).

This achievement underscores not only the success of Poland’s defense modernization strategy, but also its growing reputation as a reliable partner in the global defense industry.

The launch containers provide important structural support for the storage, transportation and launch of Patriot missiles.

The first delivery from Poland’s WZL-1 to Lockheed Martin marks an important milestone in strengthening transatlantic defense ties.

The partnership between the US defense giant Lockheed Martin and WZL-1 is based on the strategic vision of Poland’s WISŁA air and missile defense program.

The cooperation began in 2018 after Poland purchased the Patriot air defense system.

Last year, an official opening ceremony was held in Poland for the production line for the Patriot PAC-3MSE launch containers.

The plant received a certificate from the US government and Lockheed Martin to start production.

It is expected that the line will be able to produce up to 150 launch containers per year, as well as provide repair and reloading of used containers.

In 2024, it became known that the Ukrainian government also wanted to obtain licenses from the United States to produce Patriot air defense systems.

The main reason for the initiative was the critical delays in the delivery of these systems by the allies, while the country needs to protect cities and rear areas from Russian missile strikes.