Poland is examining Ukraine’s use of an anti-drone “gunship” based on the Antonov An-28 and is considering the development of similar aircraft. According to Defence24, industrial initiatives are also gaining momentum in response to military requirements. One such concept involves adapting the PZL M28 Skytruck, already in service in Poland, as an aerial platform for countering unmanned systems. The concept was presented at a conference organized by the Land Forces Military Academy.
Unmanned aerial vehicles can be engaged using conventional fighter aircraft such as the F-16 Fighting Falcon or the F-35 Lightning II. In practice, however, this approach is costly and operationally inefficient. These aircraft were designed primarily for countering crewed aviation, intercepting missiles, penetrating air defense systems, and conducting precision strike missions.
Using such fighter aircraft against slow and relatively small targets entails employing high-cost platforms for tasks that can be performed with substantially less expensive means.
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One potential solution is the PZL M28 Skytruck, produced in Poland by PZL Mielec. In various configurations, the aircraft already performs a wide range of roles, including transport, border patrol, reconnaissance, and maritime operations, including missions conducted under NATO in the Baltic and Mediterranean regions.
More than 100 M28 aircraft have been delivered to customers across multiple continents, including armed forces and government agencies. Domestic production and development capacity in Poland enable relatively rapid platform modification and the integration of additional systems.
In a baseline configuration, the armament may include the installation of 7.62 mm multi-barrel machine guns such as the M134 Minigun in the side doors, enabling engagement during patrol. An additional 12.7 mm heavy machine gun can be mounted in the rear fuselage. The aircraft may also be equipped with a nose-mounted electro-optical system, as well as a remotely operated, trainable gun mount with a 12.7 mm machine gun.
Such a configuration enables engagement across a 360° sector, including aerial, maritime – particularly unmanned – and ground targets. In addition, underwing pylons can accommodate launchers for 70 mm laser-guided rockets such as APKWS or Telson rocket system, as well as 20 mm cannons mounted in landing gear sponsons for forward-firing engagement.
The PZL M28 Skytruck can be equipped with modern communication systems, including V/UHF radios, satellite communications, and the Link 16, enabling integration with other elements of an integrated air defense system. Additional provisions include the use of the IFF M5 and INS/GPS navigation solutions with enhanced resistance to interference. As a result, the aircraft can operate effectively within an integrated air defense architecture.
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Source: militarnyi
