Lithuania to receive short-range radars in April, defence minister says

Lithuania will take delivery of newly procured short-range radars this month, Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas announced on Wednesday, as discussions continue over strengthening the country’s air defence capabilities.

Speaking to reporters, Kaunas confirmed that all necessary defence purchases had been completed, with additional procurement still underway. “The short-range radars we ordered are arriving in April, while passive radar systems are already in Lithuania, and integration of all systems is in progress,” he said.

The minister acknowledged that current capabilities remain insufficient for broader surveillance needs. “Our armed forces and experts have been tasked with identifying further technological requirements—what additional sensors we could deploy,” he added.

His remarks follow a recent incident in which an Ukrainian drone crashed in Lithuania’s Varėna district after entering the country undetected by radar. The event prompted questions about gaps in Lithuania’s air defence, with Prime Minister Ingrida Ruginienė noting the complexity of acquiring such systems. She stated that full deployment is expected by 2030.

Kaunas previously indicated that some radars ordered last year and early 2026 had already been delivered, with further shipments anticipated between 2026 and 2028.