Minister of Defense Robertas Kaunas stated that the purchase of a second battery is an “investment in the future.”
Multiple Launch Rocket System (Photo: Ministry of National Defence of the Republic of Lithuania)
Lithuania is expanding its contract for the purchase of American HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems and will acquire another—its second—battery, along with ammunition, equipment, and a training package. The agreement was concluded between the U.S. government and the Lithuanian Defence Materiel Agency. reported Ministry of National Defence of Lithuania
Why This Is Important
Lithuania is not merely ramping up its armaments; it is integrating into NATO’s collective deterrence system, placing its bets on combat-proven technologies that have already altered the course of hostilities in Ukraine. In parallel, Japan is moving away from post-war pacifism, opening up arms exports, and building a new network of alliances amidst global instability— Read more about this in the article on LIGA.net.
The Lithuanian Ministry of Defense emphasizes that HIMARS have already proven their effectiveness in Russia’s war against Ukraine, where these systems are used for high-precision strikes against the enemy’s rear.
This concerns an amendment to the 2022 contract: the new battery will include additional launchers, guided missiles of various types and ranges, as well as command, control, communications, and logistical support systems. In total, Lithuania will receive a comprehensive system—ranging from equipment to military training.
The total value of the two HIMARS contracts has not been disclosed. According to Lithuanian media, the figure could be around $778 million. The first battery is valued at $495 million, with deliveries expected as early as 2026. The systems are manufactured by the American company Lockheed Martin.
Lithuania attributes its military buildup to the security situation in the region. The country borders the Russian city of Kaliningrad and Belarus, an ally of Moscow. Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Lithuania views the risk of a direct threat from Russia as real and is actively investing in defense.
Lithuanian Minister of National Defence Robertas Kaunas stated that the acquisition of a second battery is an “investment in the future” that strengthens deterrence against the adversary and the ability to operate alongside allies on NATO’s eastern flank.
“HIMARS is an American mobile artillery system that has proven its effectiveness in the war in Ukraine. It is used by 14 NATO and partner countries,” stated Minister Robertas Kaunas.
It was previously reported that a Bundeswehr armored brigade would be permanently stationed in Lithuania.
- On April 22, Lithuanian Minister of Defense Robertas Kaunas stated…that Lithuania will purchase a batch of Merops interceptor drones, which have been deployed on the Ukrainian front.