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Three NATO Countries Commit to Lithuania in Air Defense Rotation Agreement.
The Lithuanian Ministry of Defense has confirmed that starting next year, three NATO allies will send their air defense systems as part of a rotational deployment. Details, shared by Defense Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas on Žinių Radijas radio, indicate that these rotations aim to ensure a nearly continuous presence of NATO’s air defense capabilities in the Baltic states.
Kasčiūnas confirmed that the Netherlands would be among the participating countries, though he did not specify the others (Picture source: Netherlands MoD)
Kasčiūnas confirmed that the Netherlands would be among the participating countries, though he did not specify the others. When asked about potential Swedish involvement—particularly relevant as Lithuania strengthens military ties with Sweden through the acquisition of CV90 infantry fighting vehicles—the minister stated he could not confirm this possibility at this time.
Germany, with its advanced Patriot systems and strong commitment to regional security, is a likely participant, as are the United States, which also has significant air defense capabilities. Poland, neighboring Lithuania, possesses modern Patriot systems and could be another key actor in these rotations. Additionally, France, equipped with SAMP/T systems, and potentially Sweden, now a NATO member and strengthening military links with Lithuania, are also plausible candidates.
The rotational air defense initiative, approved by NATO last year, aims to bolster security in the Baltic Sea region by addressing rising security challenges. This rotation model seeks to offset the lack of permanent air defense systems in the Baltic states by maintaining a steady presence of allied forces, providing enhanced protection against potential threats.
The Netherlands has previously deployed its long-range Patriot system at Šiauliai Air Base in Lithuania this summer as part of the BALTCON24 exercise. This deployment marked a significant step toward closer cooperation between the two nations. Kasčiūnas also mentioned the possibility of a regular Patriot deployment from the Netherlands for exercises in Lithuania, underscoring the strategic value of this partnership.
Alongside NATO's rotational deployments, Lithuania is actively strengthening its own air defense. Two agreements signed in October 2024 with European manufacturers reflect this commitment. The first, signed with Saab Dynamics on October 1, secures additional short-range air defense systems, RBS 70 NG, based on portable missiles, for approximately €130 million. These systems offer increased mobility and responsiveness against low-altitude aerial threats.
The second agreement, concluded with Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace, involves the acquisition of the NASAMS medium-range system, valued at around €234 million. Originally scheduled for 2030, this acquisition was advanced by seven years through additional funding, allowing for early deployment of these essential capabilities. NASAMS will enhance the air defense of Lithuanian armed forces, providing improved coverage against mid-range aerial threats.
These initiatives align with Lithuania’s defense strategy to reduce reliance on allied capabilities for air defense and reinforce collective security in the region. NATO's decision to take responsibility for the Baltic Sea region’s rotational air defense, in collaboration with member states, further demonstrates the Alliance’s commitment to safeguarding the Baltic countries against potential threats.