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Lithuania's First FPV Combat Drones Soon to Be Delivered to Ukraine.
On October 11, 2024, the first Lithuanian-manufactured combat drones officially arrived at military warehouses, marking a significant milestone for the national defense sector. These drones, designated for both the Lithuanian Armed Forces and Ukrainian troops, reflect Lithuania’s commitment to enhancing its technological defense capabilities while supporting Ukraine's resistance against the Russian invasion. Since the onset of the war in 2022, Lithuania has established itself as a steadfast ally of Ukraine, ranking third globally in aid sent to Ukraine relative to GDP, following Denmark and Estonia.
The Lithuanian combat drones incorporate innovative solutions from each manufacturer to mitigate the effects of electronic warfare measures, ensuring greater operational efficiency in conflict zones with high levels of electronic interference (Picture source: Lithuanian MoD)
Under the Ministry of National Defense, the Defense Resources Agency procured €8 million worth of combat drones from five Lithuanian manufacturers: Dangolakis, RSI Europe, Ltmiltech, Granta Autonomy, and Unmanned Defense Systems. This purchase includes fully equipped systems for drone deployment and control, operator training, and additional equipment. Of the 7,300 drones ordered, approximately 2,300, valued at €3 million, will be allocated to the Lithuanian Armed Forces, while nearly 5,000 drones, worth €5 million, are scheduled for transfer to the Ukrainian Armed Forces by the end of the year.
Defense Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas emphasized the strategic importance of these acquisitions, stating, “We aim to foster drone and anti-drone production in Lithuania. Drone technologies and capabilities are essential for maintaining modern armed forces. This purchase is unquestionably linked to core national security interests.” Previously, Kasčiūnas advocated for strengthened NATO air policing in the Baltic states following the crash of a Russian military drone in Latvia.
The Lithuanian combat drones incorporate innovative solutions from each manufacturer to mitigate the effects of electronic warfare measures, ensuring greater operational efficiency in conflict zones with high levels of electronic interference. These unique technological enhancements are designed to increase the drones' resilience, providing a tactical advantage in the field. Additionally, the drones are delivered fully assembled and ready for use; operators only need to attach the ammunition to deploy them.
The coalition's objectives include ensuring Ukraine’s drone supremacy through stable supply chains, fostering a secure supply chain for drone parts in the West, supporting Western drone manufacturing, and promoting allied drone capabilities (Picture source: Latvia MoD)
Lithuania’s Defense Ministry initiative to support Ukraine aligns with broader military assistance efforts. In August, Lithuania announced a substantial aid package that included short-range air defense systems, armored personnel carriers, and anti-drone equipment. Earlier in the year, Lithuania also provided 14 M113 armored personnel carriers as part of an international coalition supporting mine-clearing operations in Ukraine.
Furthermore, Lithuania is a member of the Drone Coalition, established on February 14 at the initiative of Latvia and coordinated in conjunction with the United Kingdom. Latvia has committed to allocating at least €10 million annually to this coalition. The coalition's objectives include ensuring Ukraine’s drone supremacy through stable supply chains, fostering a secure supply chain for drone parts in the West, supporting Western drone manufacturing, and promoting allied drone capabilities.
Drone technologies play a significant role in modern military strategies and tactical control, serving as crucial assets for Ukraine in reconnaissance and striking enemy targets. Coalition members include Latvia, the United Kingdom, Australia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Estonia, Italy, New Zealand, Canada, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Ukraine, Germany, and Sweden.