Lithuania has taken a significant step in enhancing its defense capabilities by signing a memorandum of understanding with Northrop Grumman to expand the co-production of medium-caliber ammunition. This agreement, which builds on an initial deal established in September 2024, was formalized at the NATO Industry Summit held in The Hague.
Under the terms of this new agreement, Northrop Grumman, in conjunction with the Norwegian defense firm Nammo, will provide Lithuania’s state-owned Giraitės Ginkluotės Gamykla (Giraitė Armaments Plant) with advanced technology for the production of 35mm ammunition, along with necessary support services.
Vice Minister of Defence, Loreta MaskaliovienÄ—, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating that it will enhance Lithuania’s ability to equip its armed forces while establishing the country as a vital player in international defense supply chains. The Lithuanian Defence Minister, DovilÄ— Å akalienÄ—, highlighted that this collaboration is crucial for developing the national military by 2030 and increasing strategic autonomy in defense matters.
Looking ahead, Lithuania plans to allocate an estimated five to six percent of its gross domestic product (GDP) towards defense spending annually from 2026 to 2030. This investment is intended to facilitate the acquisition of advanced military equipment, including tanks and tracked infantry fighting vehicles, further bolstering its defense infrastructure.
The partnership with Northrop Grumman also strengthens Lithuania’s ties with NATO allies such as the United States and Norway. Å akalienÄ— noted that the expanded deal not only supports Lithuania’s armed forces but also aids Ukraine as it navigates the ongoing conflict with Russia.
Steve O’Bryan, Northrop Grumman’s Corporate Vice President and Global Business Development Officer, underscored the significance of this collaboration. He remarked that it not only addresses a critical defense need but also brings sustained industrial benefits to both the United States and Lithuania.
This agreement comes at a time of heightened concerns regarding renewed Russian military operations in Europe, as articulated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Zelensky’s warnings regarding the aggressive posturing of Russia add a layer of urgency to the need for robust and diversified defense production capabilities in the region.
The strategic implications of these developments extend beyond Lithuania, as they are intertwined with the broader security landscape in Eastern Europe and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
