Lithuania considers prioritizing air defense over tanks; approves Leopard 2 purchase.
The Lithuanian government is considering amending its defense procurement plan to prioritize the purchase of air defense systems and postpone the purchase of tanks. The proposal, made by Defense Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas, suggests creating a tank company first instead of a tank battalion and using the funds to strengthen air defense. The plan allows for the purchase of two additional medium-range air defense systems this year, rather than waiting ten years as originally planned. The proposal is supported by Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis, who emphasized the need for investments in air defense, stating that tanks can wait but air defense is a pressing need. President Gitanas Nausėda emphasized that any changes should not affect the timeline for the formation of a 17,000-18,000-strong division by 2030. The Lithuanian government also intends to create a special fund to finance defense spending.
In other news, Lithuania has approved the purchase of German Leopard 2 tanks to strengthen its armed forces. The tanks will be acquired for a new division planned to enhance the country’s military capabilities. In addition to the tanks, an artillery regiment, air defense unit, and engineer battalion will be created as part of the division. The purchase of tanks, with a preliminary maximum requirement of 54 units, is expected to be the country’s largest defense purchase. Talks have been held with Germany regarding the supply of Leopard 2A8 tanks, with discussions held with the Czech Republic, Sweden, and the Netherlands as well. A budget of approximately 2 billion Euros has been allocated for the purchase of tanks.
ملخص الأخبار
- Lithuanian Defense Minister proposed creating tank company before battalion.
- Lithuania may purchase two additional medium-range air defense systems this year.
- Lithuania’s plans include creating an artillery regiment along with tanks.
- The country could buy up to 54 tanks, the largest defense purchase.
