Lithuania announces new military aid package

On Ukrainian Independence Day, Lithuania announced a new military aid package for Ukraine. The press service of the Ministry of Defense announced this on its social media pages. The new transfer of EUR41 million worth of military aid includes ammunition, rifles, maritime surveillance radars, counter-drone equipment, and other necessary equipment and weapons.

Lithuania does not publicize the full lists and quantities of weapons planned for transfer, citing security concerns. The Ministry of Defense also pointed out the upcoming transfer of NASAMS air defense system launchers, which are due to arrive in Ukraine in September this year. The two additional launchers purchased by Lithuania will be included in the systems already deployed on the territory of Ukraine.

AIM-120 missile launch from the NASAMS air defense system launcher.

Photo credits: Kongsberg

Lithuania's military assistance

Since the beginning of the Russian invasion, Lithuania has provided Ukraine with a significant amount of various weapons and armored vehicles, as well as ammunition and special equipment. About 24,500 rifles and machine guns, 4,000 pistols, and 1,300 grenade launchers were transferred, along with over 12 million cartridges and ammunition. The aid included 40-mm L70 anti-aircraft guns and ammunition, and portable anti-aircraft systems.

Ukraine also received NASAMS air defense system elements and radars.

Training of the Ukrainian military on L70 anti-aircraft guns in Lithuania, 2023. Photo credits: Lithuanian Armed Forces/Tomo Kavaliausko

Vehicles, 72 M113 tracked armored personnel carriers, and two Mi-8 helicopters were also transferred. Lithuania also donated artillery, providing 18 105-mm M101 howitzers and 30 120-mm mortars, as well as artillery ammunition.

Infantry equipment, thermal imagers, drones, small drones, and counter-drone systems were provided free of charge.