Lithuania Forms New Threat Against Russian Armored Fleet With Vilkas IFVs Armed With Spike ATGMs.

On August 19, 2025, the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence confirmed the arrival of a new batch of Israeli-made Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles, valued at six million euros, as reported by LRT. This delivery underscores Lithuania’s long-term modernization efforts and its preparation for potential high-intensity conflict scenarios along NATO’s eastern flank. The move also reflects growing Lithuanian-Israeli defense cooperation at a time of heightened regional security concerns. By equipping its forces with advanced anti-armor capabilities, Lithuania seeks not only to enhance its operational readiness but also to send a strategic signal of deterrence to Moscow.
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This latest delivery of Spike LR2 missiles integrated on Vilkas IFVs therefore, represents more than a routine acquisition. It is a carefully calculated investment in deterrence, sending a clear signal to both allies and adversaries that Lithuania is prepared to defend its sovereignty and contribute to NATO’s collective defense posture (Picture source: Lithuanian Armed Forces)

The Spike LR2 missiles are fully integrated into Lithuania’s Vilkas infantry fighting vehicles, a localized variant of the Boxer platform. These vehicles, already equipped with Israeli turrets, are central to the Lithuanian Army’s mechanized brigades. The Spike’s tandem warhead and fire-and-forget guidance make it particularly effective against Russian armored vehicles, which remain heavily deployed in Kaliningrad, Belarus, and across the Ukrainian front. Often described by experts as a sledgehammer against armored targets, the Spike system can penetrate advanced reactive and composite armor, giving Lithuania a decisive advantage in halting potential incursions.

The operational history of the Spike family of missiles spans over two decades, with proven use by multiple NATO and allied armies in conflicts from the Middle East to Eastern Europe. Lithuania’s choice of the LR2 variant reflects a focus on range and precision, with engagement capability beyond 5.5 kilometers, ensuring both defensive depth and offensive reach. Compared with other NATO-standard systems, such as the American Javelin or the European MMP, the Spike LR2 offers greater versatility through its lock-on after launch capability and advanced targeting options, giving commanders more flexibility on the battlefield.

Strategically, this procurement consolidates Lithuania’s role as a frontline NATO member facing Russian pressure points in Kaliningrad and along the Belarusian border. The Vilkas-armed units represent a credible counterweight to Russian mechanized brigades, which have traditionally relied on heavy armor as a show of dominance. For Ukraine, where Spike systems are already in use, the Lithuanian reinforcement echoes broader Western efforts to integrate advanced precision-guided munitions into frontline defense against Russian assaults. Beyond the battlefield, the delivery also feeds into Lithuania’s diplomatic messaging: that its defense modernization is irreversible and backed by solid industrial partnerships with key Israeli suppliers such as Rafael, Elbit Systems, and IAI.

Financially, the six-million-euro contract for this batch of Spike LR2 missiles fits into Lithuania’s broader defense budget, which now exceeds two percent of GDP, in line with NATO commitments. Previous Spike acquisitions had already been secured under earlier procurement contracts, and discussions held in Israel earlier this year included the possibility of launching local missile production in Lithuania. Such a step would not only reduce dependence on external supply chains but also create new synergies with ongoing projects, including 120mm ammunition production, drone programs, and counter-drone systems. These initiatives highlight Lithuania’s ambition to build a resilient defense industrial base capable of sustaining high-end operations in the long term.

This latest delivery of Spike LR2 missiles integrated on Vilkas IFVs therefore represents more than a routine acquisition. It is a carefully calculated investment in deterrence, sending a clear signal to both allies and adversaries that Lithuania is prepared to defend its sovereignty and contribute to NATO’s collective defense posture. Against the backdrop of continued Russian military pressure, Lithuania’s modernization drive demonstrates not only technical progress but also strategic resolve.