Lithuania: €320 Million Deal with SAAB for Air Defense System

Lithuania is set to acquire RBS-70 NG portable air defense systems in a €320 million agreement with Swedish company SAAB.

The Lithuanian Ministry of Defense announced that this move aims to strengthen the country's defense capabilities. The agreement ensures the supply of weaponry to the Lithuanian armed forces from 2026 to 2032.

Lithuania already possesses RBS 70 systems, which are effective against aerial targets. These systems were chosen for their ease of maintenance and portability.

The Lithuanian government had previously announced its intention to purchase anti-tank ammunition and single-use grenade launchers, also from SAAB.

Lithuania, which borders Kaliningrad and Belarus, views the war in Ukraine as a direct threat and has significantly strengthened its defense capabilities since 2022. It is projected to spend 5.38% of its GDP on defense in 2026.

Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas stated that strengthening air defense is a top priority.