Perkunas Patrol Ship: Lithuania’s Answer to Modern Maritime Threats.

According to information published by Klaipeda on January 20, 2025, Lithuania has introduced an addition to its naval ambitions with the unveiling of the patrol ship project Perkūnas. Developed in collaboration with Danish partners and led by Lithuania’s Western Baltic Engineering, this project is a milestone in the modernization of the country’s maritime defense capabilities.
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Artist rendering of the Lithuanian Perkunas patrol ship. (Picture source: Western Baltic Engineering)

The concept emerged from a collaboration between the Lithuanian maritime industry, defense experts, and academic institutions. The design showcases Lithuania's technical capabilities and its ability to integrate international expertise. With an 88-meter length and 17-meter width, the Perkūnas is a versatile vessel designed for operations in both shallow and deep waters. It can reach speeds exceeding 18 knots and is equipped with engines providing six megawatts of power. Its design accommodates a crew of 30 to 60 and offers advanced maneuverability.

The patrol ship is envisioned as a multi-role platform capable of addressing contemporary maritime security challenges. It will be used for patrolling, critical infrastructure protection, and strategic operations such as anti-terrorism measures, reconnaissance, and mine countermeasures.

Lithuanian Navy

The Lithuanian Navy, formally established on August 1, 1935, is the naval branch of the Lithuanian Armed Forces. Its mission encompasses the control, protection, and defense of Lithuania's territorial waters and exclusive economic zone. The Navy is also responsible for mine-clearing operations, anti-terrorism activities at sea, protection of shipping lanes, and search and rescue operations.

The fleet includes a variety of vessels fulfilling different operational roles. Among its key assets are mine countermeasures ships such as Jotvingis, Skalvis, Kuršis, and M55, which specialize in clearing naval mines and supporting NATO operations. The Patrol Ships Squadron includes multirole warships like Žemaitis, Dzūkas, Aukštaitis, and Sėlis, supported by smaller patrol boats such as the Storebro SB90E-class vessel and new Jehu-class patrol boats expected in 2025. Auxiliary ships like PGL Šakiai and H21 Vilnelė enhance search and rescue, support, and icebreaking capabilities.

As a NATO member, the Lithuanian Navy plays a critical role in mine countermeasures operations, contributing to the Standing NATO Mine Countermeasures Group 1 (SNMCMG1) and the NATO Response Force. It also collaborates with Latvia in the Baltic Mine Countermeasures Squadron (BALTRON).

Modernization has been a key focus, with the procurement of additional minehunters, the introduction of Jehu-class patrol boats.