“Thank you for the unceasing security and defence assistance from the United States, it helps to strengthen Lithuania’s security and our defensive capabilities significantly,” said Minister of National Defence Arvydas meeting U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin in Washington, March 5.
U.S. Secretary of Defense commended Lithuania’s steadfast commitment and contribution to the Alliance security.
Minister underscored Lithuania’s special dedication to the areas highlighted in the recently signed 2024-2028 bilateral defence cooperation agreement with the U.S., namely, development of an integrated air defence architecture in the Baltic region, assistance with national division and long-range fire support capability development.
The counterparts underscored the continued enhancement of deterrence in the Baltic region. “U.S. force presence in Lithuania is crucial for deterrence,” said A. Anušauskas. “Lithuania particularly appreciates the persistent U.S. military presence in Lithuania. We are constantly improving host nation support. Soon we will able to offer your troops brand-new military infrastructure in Pabradė.”
Minister A. Anušauskas noted that Lithuania was doing the homework, investing to upgrade the Armed Forces, developing a national division. Lithuania allots 2.77 percent of GDP for defence this year with further target set on 3 percent of GDP.
The Lithuanian-U.S. defence cooperation has gained more quality over the recent years. “I would like to note that Lithuania continues to lead among the Baltic states in defence procurement from the U.S. Over 20% of our new weaponry and defence equipment acquisitions comes from the United States. We were among the pioneer Switchblade buyers,” stated A. Anušauskas.
Minister underscored that Lithuania was aiming for a wider cooperation with the U.S. defence industry. “We recognize a pronounced need for a U.S.-Lithuanian defence industry cooperation and attraction of investment to Lithuania,” he said. Lithuania’s defence procurements from the U.S. have seen a significant increase in recent years along with the necessity to have a safe, continuous and fast weaponry and ammunition supply and support.
“Ukraine, more than ever, needs us to do more. Our assistance to Ukraine will not stop,” said A. Anušauskas to Secretary Austin addressing the importance of military assistance to Ukraine. Lithuania has provided military assistance for over EUR 525 million since the beginning of the war to date to Ukraine, while the sum with civilian assistance soars to over 1.4% of national GDP. “Europe’s military support to Ukraine is growing and is said to grow more. However, continued United States military aid to Ukraine remains critical,” Minister stressed.
He and Secretary of Defense discussed regional security, upcoming NATO Summit in Washington and cooperation opportunities in the Indo-Pacific.
Photo credit: L. Rimkevičienė/MoD
