Lithuania considers acquiring Israeli drone detection system for low-altitude airspace

Lithuania is evaluating the purchase of an Israeli-made drone and object detection system for low-altitude airspace, following a demonstration by defense manufacturer Elbit Systems in Jurgaičiai, Kaunas district, LRT reports.

The system, designed to detect threats at altitudes up to 3 km, was presented to officials including Speaker of the Seimas Juozas Olekas, Transport Minister Juras Taminskas, Israeli Ambassador Shelly Hugler Livne, and national security representatives. The demonstration took place at a Telecentras-owned retransmission station, chosen for its existing infrastructure capable of hosting detection equipment.

Taminskas emphasized that while multiple manufacturers exist, the key advantage lies in leveraging Telecentras’ network to enhance national defense. “We’ve created conditions to use our infrastructure for this equipment, showing that the Transport Ministry is committed to making Lithuania safer,” he stated. The Ministry of National Defence will assess the system’s potential acquisition.

Olekas noted that the military must conduct a detailed analysis to determine how many units could be procured and where they should be deployed. “These systems don’t cover all airspace; they require additional range and possibly other structures beyond Telecentras towers to mount the equipment,” he said, adding that cost-benefit evaluations will be critical.

The demonstrated system uses a multi-layered sensor network to detect, identify, and track various aircraft, including “Shahed”-type drones. During tests, five drone types were flown at varying speeds and altitudes (from a few hundred meters to 1 km) to simulate real attack scenarios. Sensors installed on Telecentras towers showcased their ability to detect drones and other objects, such as weather balloons, using passive sensors and radar.

Edvinas Kerza, former Deputy Minister of National Defence and current defense industry representative, described the system as “multi-tiered,” allowing for a mix of acoustic and reconnaissance sensors alongside radars to reduce costs while maintaining effectiveness. “This is top-tier military technology—its value lies in protecting lives, not just price,” he remarked.

A final decision on procurement will be made by the State Defence Council in the near future.