Lithuania and Austrian defence firm agree technology transfer

Lithuania’s Defence Ministry has signed an industrial cooperation agreement with Austrian defence company Hirtenberger Defence Europe GmbH, LRT reported. The agreement will transfer specialised technical knowledge needed for ammunition inspection, quality control and defect analysis.

The programme covers ammunition inspection, non-destructive testing, technical condition assessment, defect analysis, quality and conformity assessment, safety assurance and life-cycle management.

The ministry said the acquired knowledge and practical skills would allow some ammunition inspection, technical assessment and quality-control activities to be carried out in Lithuania. This would help build local technical capabilities and create more opportunities for Lithuanian companies and research and development organisations to take part in new activities.

Hirtenberger Defence Europe is transferring more than 160 years of experience in developing, manufacturing and maintaining ammunition systems, according to the ministry.

The ministry said such long-term agreements are intended to strengthen the independence of Lithuania’s defence industry, shorten supply chains for critical military equipment and improve the country’s defence preparedness. They are also intended to help Lithuanian companies that gain the necessary expertise and demonstrate their reliability remain in international supply chains after specific contractual obligations end.