PZL Defence, a Polish company specializing in security and protective infrastructure solutions, is expanding its operations to include a new business area: SMOL modular shelters (System of Modular Civil Protection). This expansion responds to the obligations imposed on local governments by the Act on Civil Protection and Civil Defense, which requires municipalities to prepare temporary shelter facilities for residents.
Modular shelters are a ready-made solution fully compliant with the requirements of the Act on Civil Protection and Civil Defense, enabling the rapid provision of shelter spaces without the need for lengthy and costly construction works. The structure is based on composite rings installed directly on the ground. Thanks to the modular design, individual elements can be freely combined to create shelters of any length. The system allows for the construction of small temporary shelters for several people, as well as extensive protective structures accommodating up to 500 people. Due to their design, the modules can be safely relocated and reinstalled in other locations, such as along transport routes or in areas of increased risk, without the use of heavy lifting equipment.
The solution was developed by specialists with experience in critical infrastructure and civil defense, in line with military construction standards. It represents a civilian adaptation of the innovative composite protective structure technology known as PSMO Warsaw. The system has been tested by the Military Institute of Armament Technology (WITU), which confirmed its resistance to an overpressure wave generated by the detonation of a 12 kg TNT charge. In addition, the system has been tested for resistance to small-arms fire up to caliber 14.5×114 API and fragments of a 155 mm artillery shell.
“The new regulations mean that municipalities urgently need scalable solutions that can be deployed quickly. Our shelter system responds precisely to these needs. It is Polish technology based on military standards, yet designed for immediate use by local governments in full compliance with applicable procedures. Our goal is to deliver a robust, tested solution that can already enhance the safety of residents today,” says Maciej Borecki, President of the Management Board of PZL Defence S.A.
The installation of a shelter structure for 25 people takes approximately two hours, enabling rapid operational readiness even in emergency situations. In addition to serving as temporary shelters, the modules can also be used as temporary civil defense storage facilities, mobile crisis management centers, shelters for generators, energy storage units, or equipment essential for the proper functioning of critical infrastructure, as well as elements supporting its protection.
With the introduction of SMOL modular shelters, PZL Defence is expanding into the protective infrastructure and public safety sector, offering local governments proven and rapidly deployable protection solutions.
PZL Defence was established in July 2025 on the initiative of the UNIMOT Group and PZL Sędziszów. The company plans to specialize in the production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and counter-drone systems, is preparing for the production of civilian drones, and is developing projects related to the protection of critical infrastructure, including the newly introduced modular shelters.
