Poland orders P-18PL air defence radars from PGZ in a landmark deal

The contract, valued at over PL 3.1 billion, will span from 2023 to 2035. It includes not only the delivery of the 24 P-18PL radar stations but also encompasses a comprehensive training package and technical support services as part of a logistical package.

The P-18PL radar is designed to be compatible with all command systems of the Polish Air Defence Forces and other air defence systems used in the Polish military. In the future, it will integrate with the Integrated Air and Missile Defence Battle Command System (IBCS) for the NAREW short-range air defence systems and medium-range air defence systems as part of the WISŁA program’s second phase.

The P-18PL radar completed its qualification tests with positive results in December 2022, paving the way for orders by the Polish Armed Forces and its subsequent mass production. The radar’s primary function is the early detection of aerial threats, determining the direction and type of the attack, and classifying the attacking means. Detected threats enable the designation of targets for fire control radars.

Featuring a three-coordinate system capable of scanning in azimuth and elevation planes, the P-18PL is equipped with an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) antenna. This technology allows for the determination of the distance, azimuth, and now also the height of detected objects, a significant advancement over the previously used P-18 radar. The radar operates in the meter wave range, distinguishing it from most Western designs that operate in the microwave band.

Key features of the P-18PL include the capability to detect and track ballistic and hypersonic missiles, detect Stealth-type air objects, identify hovering helicopters, and operate passively while maintaining high mobility – achieving combat readiness in under 30 minutes.