Lithuania to get additional NASAMS systems in $213 million deal with Norway’s Kongsberg

Europe, News October 6, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

3 minute read

Lithuania’s Defense Ministry has signed a new contract with Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace to procure additional NASAMS air defense systems. Valued at approximately $213 million (193 million euros), the contract aims to provide Lithuania with the latest technology and increased defense capabilities, solidifying its regional air defense leader position.

This acquisition continues Lithuania’s commitment to strengthening its air defense capabilities, following a similar order placed in December 2023 to increase the number of NASAMS fire units. The new contract also includes upgrading the NASAMS equipment that Lithuania initially acquired in 2017, ensuring that the country’s defense systems remain modern and capable of countering evolving threats.

President of Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace Eirik Lie highlighted the growing demand for NASAMS, particularly among existing users. “KONGSBERG sees increased demand from existing NASAMS users to upgrade and expand their NASAMS assets. The NASAMS system is an important defense capacity given the geopolitical situation in the world. The contract with Lithuania also strengthens the country’s partnership with NATO,” Lie said.

NASAMS, which stands for National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System, is renowned for its flexibility and advanced capabilities. The system is modular, meaning it can be upgraded with new technology to adapt to emerging threats.

The system’s open architecture enables it to integrate various types of sensors, weapons, and control systems, allowing customization based on specific needs. This feature ensures that NASAMS remains relevant in a rapidly changing defense landscape.

*^{National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System jointly developed by Norwegian defense firm Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and American arms manufacturer Raytheon. (Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons)}*

As part of a growing community of 13 nations using NASAMS, Lithuania is now positioned to benefit from these technological advancements. The system’s ability to address a wide range of air defense missions, including long-range air defense and anti-tactical ballistic missiles, makes it one of the most versatile solutions on the market

Lithuania, along with several other European nations, has drastically improved its air defense capacities in recent months. By enhancing its air defense infrastructure, Lithuania is making a proactive move to ensure the safety of its skies, safeguard its population, and contribute to the broader security of the Baltic region amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The $213 million investment in NASAMS represents more than just a military acquisition, it’s a commitment to staying ahead of potential threats in an increasingly uncertain geopolitical environment.

As Lithuania continues to build its defense capabilities, the partnership with KONGSBERG further solidifies its role as a key player in the defense of Europe.

The U.S. and NATO partners have provided Ukraine with several NASAMS to counter Russian missile and drone attacks. The system, co-produced by Norway and the U.S., has proven to be highly effective and successfully destroyed hundreds of Russian missiles and drones.