Poland has chosen to arm its drone defenses with the WLKM Gatling gun, following incursions from Russia.
The Polish Ministry of Defense has announced plans to introduce the WLKM 12.7 mm Gatling gun, a domestically developed weapon designed to strengthen Poland's short-range air defense and counter-drone capabilities.
The WLKM system, produced by Zakłady Mechaniczne Tarnów (ZM Tarnów), was initially developed as a large-caliber machine gun intended for antipersonnel use. However, its focus has since shifted to combating drones.
The Ministry of Defense has commissioned the companies Rosomak S.A. and ZM Tarnów to manufacture the WLKM, with production expected to begin in 2024. The system will complement Poland's air defense network, including Patriot PAC-3 missile systems and the Pilica+ system.
The WLKM is a four-barrel rotary gun chambered in 12.7×99 mm NATO caliber, capable of achieving rates of fire of up to 3,600 rounds per minute. This makes it a potent weapon against unmanned aerial vehicles and other low-altitude targets.
The effectiveness of the WLKM system in service could lead to export opportunities, as other NATO members, including Lithuania, are looking for cost-effective counter-UAS solutions.
The recent Russian drone incursion into Polish airspace underscores both the operational risks and the cost asymmetry of engaging inexpensive one-way attack drones with high-end air-to-air missiles. A Polish F-16-launched missile likely struck a house in the village of Wyryki during this incursion, highlighting the need for a more cost-effective solution.
The cost of the WLKM system and its production timeline have not been made public. The Ministry of Defense has also not disclosed the value of any contract or the timeline for production of the WLKM system, nor has it detailed which military units will be the first to receive the system or the scale of the planned acquisition.
The WLKM is designed for integration into remote-controlled weapon stations, making it a flexible addition to Poland's defense arsenal. The introduction of the WLKM system reinforces Poland's policy of strengthening its defense industrial base and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.
In conclusion, the development and introduction of the WLKM 12.7 mm Gatling gun is a significant step towards enhancing Poland's counter-drone capabilities and reducing the cost asymmetry in dealing with drone threats. The system's potential export opportunities and its role in strengthening Poland's defense industrial base make it a strategic investment for the country.
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