“The security situation in the region has induced a comprehensive public and political support for acceleration of armed forces modernization as the primary and key guarantee of Lithuania’s security. Only if we have the critical capabilities can we ensure a credible deterrence and defence alongside our allies. The U.S. support for Lithuania’s acquisition prioritization is critical to our aim,” said Vice Minister of National Defence Vilius Semeška visiting the United States.
Vice Minister had meetings with Dr. William A. LaPlante, the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, and Director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency James A. Hursch at the U.S. Department of Defense over Lithuania’s defence capability development.
Vice Minister presented to them the status and priorities of major defence acquisitions underway and underscored that the Ministry of National Defence and military leadership viewed anti-armor and aircraft defence, stronger military mobility, long-range indirect fire support and air defence capability development as key projects that required speedy decision-making.
The U.S. side reaffirmed that the threat perception was shared and both leaders assured of their personal commitment to evaluate each acquisition project and see to getting the priority weaponry to the Lithuanian Armed Forces within the shortest time possible.
It has been also agreed to intensify the efforts on the implementation of the Reciprocal Defense Procurement Agreement signed with U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin during Lithuanian Minister of Defence Arvydas Anušauskas’ visit to the United States on 13 December 2021. The U.S. side committed to arranging a comprehensive training for Lithuanian companies shortly on the opportunity to propose offers in U.S. invitations to tender and potentially enter the supply chains that the agreement provided. Vice Minister stressed that Lithuania undoubtedly had what to offer in dual use advanced technology, laser, semi-conductor areas and joint the secure democratic supply chain community.
The meetings also focussed heavily on military assistance to Ukraine. Vice Minister thanked the U.S. for the leadership and underscored how the recently passed additional 40 billion of assistance to Ukraine and the Ukraine Democracy Defense Lend-Lease Law were particularly important for Ukraine and an additional opportunity to strengthen capabilities in Lithuania and the entire eastern flank.
