Lithuania invites US to expand drone defence cooperation

Lithuania has called on the United States to deepen bilateral cooperation in countering drone threats, the country’s Defence Ministry announced on Thursday.

Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas met with US National Guard Bureau Chief General Steven Nordhaus—currently visiting Lithuania—to discuss expanded collaboration, including experimental drone defence technologies. The talks also covered defence industry partnerships, host-nation support, and continued aid to Ukraine, the ministry stated.

Both sides agreed to increase officer exchanges, share best practices, and strengthen expertise in emerging technologies. Kaunas highlighted Lithuania’s commitment to regional security, noting its decision to join US-led demining operations in the Strait of Hormuz—a move welcomed by allies.

The ministry underscored Nordhaus’s role as the US National Guard’s top officer, overseeing 430,000 personnel, and his advisory position to the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the president, and the National Security Council. During the meeting, Nordhaus described Lithuania as a “model and reliable ally.”

Kaunas reiterated Lithuania’s interest in working with both Pennsylvania’s National Guard and other US military units to advance drone countermeasures and defence innovation.