Lithuania to strengthen air defence and radar network in response to drone threats

Lithuania will allocate a quarter of its military procurement budget this year to enhancing air surveillance and defence capabilities, with a focus on countering drone threats, defence minister Robertas Kaunas announced on Saturday.

Speaking to public broadcaster LRT, Kaunas said the country is actively expanding its radar and sensor network while acquiring both kinetic and non-kinetic counter-drone systems. “It is crucial not only to detect drones but also to develop an integrated system for their detection, interception, or neutralisation,” he stated.

The measures include deploying detectors, sensors, and barriers at key sites, integrated with electronic counter-drone systems. A unified anti-drone framework is being built for the Lithuanian Armed Forces, State Border Guard Service, and Public Security Service, with plans to procure additional passive and active radars, portable counter-drone tools, and other commercially available solutions.

Conventional air defence will also be reinforced. Lithuania expects delivery of the medium-range NASAMS system in April, with initial operational capability targeted by year-end. Next year, the country will receive the short-range mobile MSHORAD systems. New short-range Giraffe radars are also being installed, alongside planned passive radar acquisitions. Lithuania is additionally participating in a joint purchase of Poland’s VSHORAD Piorun systems with Estonia, Norway, and Poland.

Lithuania’s air defence forms part of NATO’s integrated air and missile defence architecture, aligned with alliance guidelines and regional plans.