On April 24, 2025, the Lithuanian government officially approved the allocation of an additional €187.7 million in funding for the procurement of 27 Boxer Vilkas infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) and NASAMS air defense systems. This strategic decision is part of an accelerated effort to enhance national defense capabilities to ensure the timely delivery of these key assets by the end of the decade. The funding, drawn from a loan package dedicated specifically to military needs, will enable advance payments that place Lithuania in a favorable position within international production schedules. The procurement represents a further step in the development of a national combined arms division designed to be interoperable with NATO and capable of responding independently to contemporary threats on Europe’s eastern flank.
This exceptional funding will be directed by the Ministry of National Defense (KAM) to cover advance payments for two major armament programs: the acquisition of combat vehicles configured for engineering missions and the procurement of medium-range air defense systems. Specifically, it involves 27 additional Boxer Vilkas IFVs, scheduled for delivery between 2027 and 2029, and NASAMS systems expected by 2028. According to Minister of National Defense Dovilė Šakalienė, these early payments ensure Lithuania secures a priority place in the suppliers’ production and delivery lines, a key factor in meeting the deadlines set for enhancing military capabilities.