US unveils first HIMARS launchers allocated to Lithuania

The US defense manufacturer Lockheed Martin has publicly displayed the first High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) allocated to Lithuania, the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence announced on Saturday.

The HIMARS system, proven in combat in Ukraine, is used by 14 NATO allies and partner nations. According to Defence Minister Arvydas Anušauskas, the system “strengthens national defence, deterrence, and our ability to operate alongside allies on NATO’s eastern flank.”

The ministry stated that the advanced system significantly enhances Lithuania’s operational capabilities and contributes to regional collective defence. Gaylia Campbell, vice president of tactical missiles at Lockheed Martin, emphasised the system’s compatibility with NATO networks, calling it “a critical capability for joint operations.”

Under a 2022 agreement, Lithuania is acquiring HIMARS launchers with both combat and training ammunition, including Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS), as well as maintenance equipment and integration services. Over the past three years, Lithuania has purchased approximately €2 billion worth of US weaponry, making it the largest buyer of American arms in the Baltics.

Recent acquisitions include Javelin anti-tank systems, JLTV armoured vehicles, Black Hawk helicopters, AMRAAM missiles for NASAMS air defence, and HIMARS artillery systems.