The Government has approved the proposal of the Ministry of the Economy and Innovation to confer the status of urgent national security and de fence requirement to the project Leopard 2A8 assembly factory. The status grants additional special investment conditions to ensure a faster and more efficient implementation.
“For the first time, a part of advanced NATO standard tanks will be assembled in Lithuania and infrastructure will be built to provide technical maintenance and readiness for the long-term. This makes the Lithuanian Armed Forces stronger, facilitates development of the defence industry and contributes to the enhancement of the European defence capacity,” says Minister of National Defence Robertas Kaunas.
“This project is not just a significant investment in Lithuania’s defence industry but also a critical step in strengthening Lithuania’s national security. Tank assembly in Lithuania improves supply chain security, cut dependence on external providers and creates added value for national economy for the long-term. It is also a clear signal that the country is consistently implementing strategic investment setting conditions for the them to grow and create high value jobs in Lithuania,” says Minister of the Economy and Innovation Edvinas Grikšas.
According to Minister, in light of the changed geopolitical situation and increased security threats in the region, enhancement of national defence industry capability must be seen as a strategic priority. Security of availability of part of the critical capability within the country will improve technical readiness, interoperability with NATO Allies and Lithuania’s long-term security.
The Project of Assembly of Leopard 2A8 Main Battle Tanks in Lithuania has been added to the Major Project List. The infrastructure required for the enterprise expansion will be established in the Free Economic Zone (FEZ) of Kaunas. Lithuania Defense Services (LDS) is planned to invest EUR 50 million in the project and create up to 80 new jobs by 2028.
When implemented, the project will significantly strengthen Lithuania’s national security and further the Common Security and Defence Policy objectives.
Photo credit: Lithuania Defense Service
