Lithuania has allocated 187.7 million euros ($200 million) in state-borrowed funds to purchase 27 Boxer infantry fighting vehicles and the NASAMS medium-range air defense system.
The vehicles are scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2029, while the NASAMS system is expected in 2028.
Vilnius has allocated the funds as advance payments to ensure the earlier delivery of the equipment for the Lithuanian Armed Forces.
This is the first allocation under an increased state borrowing limit, as Lithuania raised the limit by 800 million euros ($854 million) last year to provide additional funding for national defense.
“As we develop capabilities and strive to develop the National Division by 2030, we constantly strive to pay as early as possible so that our orders are first in line,” Lithuanian Minister of National Defence Dovilė Šakalienė said.
The Systems
The NASAMS system can carry up to six missiles, has an effective range of 50 kilometers (31 miles), and a radar tracking range of 120 kilometers (75 miles).
The system includes an electro-optical sensor for improved target tracking.
NASAMS can engage targets at altitudes above 21 kilometers (13 miles) and operates autonomously around the clock.
The Boxer is an 8×8 armored vehicle designed for various military roles. It uses a modular system with a standard drive platform and interchangeable mission modules.
This allows it to be adapted for different tasks, from combat operations to support and humanitarian missions.
Enhancing Security
The Baltic nation is stepping up its defense efforts as regional tensions persist.
Vilnius lies just 30 kilometers (20 miles) from the Belarusian border, a key staging ground in Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The country aims to boost military readiness and address emerging security risks and has outlined plans to raise annual defense spending to between 5 and 6 percent of GDP from 2026 to 2030.
