Lithuanian defence minister begins US visit on security, troop presence
Lithuania's Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas has begun a week-long visit to the United States to discuss the security situation and bilateral defence cooperation. The trip includes meetings with senior US officials and defence manufacturers.
Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas began a week-long visit to the United States on Monday, during which he will discuss the security situation, bilateral defence cooperation and the presence of US troops in Lithuania with American officials.
According to the Defence Ministry, Kaunas is set to meet US Under Secretary of War for Policy Elbridge Colby, along with members of Congress Patty Murray and Roger F. Wicker. During the trip, the minister also plans to meet representatives of US defence companies Lockheed Martin, Palantir, Northrop Grumman, Mach Industries and Epirus Inc.
Weapons purchases
The ministry said that over the past three years, Lithuania has bought around €2 billion worth of weapons and equipment from the US. These purchases include Javelin anti-tank missile systems, JLTV armoured vehicles, Black Hawk helicopters, HIMARS multiple-launch rocket systems, and AMRAAM missiles for NASAMS air defence systems.
Visit to Pennsylvania National Guard
Kaunas also plans to visit the Pennsylvania National Guard and meet its commander, Major General John Pippy. The Pennsylvania National Guard has cooperated with Lithuania since 1993 under the State Partnership Programme. The ministry noted that this cooperation covers the development of a division within Lithuania's armed forces, training for Black Hawk helicopter pilots and technicians, joint exercises, and the exchange of experience in crisis management.
