Lithuania Finalizes Purchase of German Leopard 2 Tanks & Initiates Acquisition of CV-90 Infantry Fighting Vehicles.

On October 22, 2024, Lithuania officially decided to purchase German-made Leopard 2 main battle tanks and initiated procedures for acquiring Swedish CV-90 infantry fighting vehicles. According to a statement from the Ministry of Defense, the decision also includes establishing requirements for cooperation with Lithuania's domestic defense industry. The announcement follows a meeting of the State Defense Council (VGT) on October 22, 2024, marking a key milestone in Lithuania’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military forces.
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German Army Leopard 2A6 main battle tank.  (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The meeting, attended by the Minister of National Defense Laurynas Kasčiūnas and Commander of the Lithuanian Armed Forces General Raimundas Vaikšnoras, focused on the progress of the national division's development and the acquisition of heavy weaponry. The decision to acquire the Leopard 2 tanks follows earlier discussions at previous VGT meetings, where the German tanks were selected as the preferred option.

The Leopard 2 is one of the world's most advanced main battle tanks, renowned for its firepower, protection, and mobility. Developed by Germany’s Krauss-Maffei Wegmann, it features a 120mm smoothbore cannon, advanced armor systems, and high-tech targeting and communications equipment. Numerous NATO allies use it and it has a proven track record in both defensive and offensive operations, making it a key component of modern armored warfare.

In addition to tank procurement, Lithuania also focuses on securing tracked infantry fighting vehicles to support its tank battalions. At today’s VGT meeting, General Vaikšnoras presented military advice on potential alternatives, while Minister Kasčiūnas outlined the political, economic, and financial evaluations conducted by the Ministry of Defense.

The Swedish CV-90 infantry fighting vehicle, developed by BAE Systems Hägglunds, is a highly versatile platform designed for modern combat operations. It combines excellent firepower, mobility, and protection, with variants equipped with a 30mm or 40mm autocannon and advanced command and control systems. The CV-90 has been widely adopted by several European nations and is known for its adaptability to different combat roles, from reconnaissance to supporting heavy armor in battle 

Based on these evaluations, the Swedish-made CV-90 tracked infantry fighting vehicles were proposed as the ideal option for Lithuania’s needs. The VGT has instructed the Ministry of Defense to initiate the procurement process for these vehicles, which will serve two battalions in the Lithuanian army. The decision also calls for close cooperation with Lithuania’s domestic defense industry.

Both the tank and infantry fighting vehicle acquisitions are expected to be financed through Lithuania’s Defense Fund, reflecting the country’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities in a rapidly changing security environment.

The Lithuanian Ministry of Defense has emphasized that these acquisitions are critical for modernizing the country's military and enhancing its readiness to meet current and future defense challenges.

A Swedish CV90 IFV engages elements of the opposing force during a cooperative training exercise on Sept. 13, 2017, near Skovde, Sweden. (Picture source U.S. DoD)