Lithuania Finances Production of Ukrainian Long-Range Weapons

Lithuania has allocated €10 million to finance the production of Ukrainian long-range weapons, Ukraine’s Defenсe Minister Rustem Umierov announced.

“The Lithuanian Ministry of National Defense has allocated €10 million for the production of modern Ukrainian long-range weapons,” Umierov said, noting that the funds represent the first tranche under a Memorandum of Understanding signed in December 2024.

The two governments are currently working on an additional €10 million package, which would expand production and further enhance Ukraine’s ability to strike Russian targets at greater distances.

“These weapons are already operating effectively on the front line, increasing our range, accuracy, and firepower,” Umierov added.

The initial €10 million is estimated to cover the procurement of 50 to 100 long-range drones, powered by either conventional or jet engines. Lithuania has previously announced plans to fund Ukraine’s domestically produced “Palianytsia” drones.

Lithuania has also expressed interest in deeper cooperation with Ukraine’s defense industry. Preliminary agreements have been reached to develop joint production of “strategic weapons” on Lithuanian territory.

“The Ukrainian defense industry has incredible potential to become a global player, thanks to its combat experience, the motivation and competence of its engineers, and the forward-thinking approach of its leadership,” said Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovile Šakalienė. “We aim to expand this cooperation to joint Lithuanian-Ukrainian weapons production — both in Lithuania and in Ukraine.”

Since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Lithuania has provided approximately €800 million in military assistance to Ukraine. The country’s total long-term aid commitment exceeds €1.5 billion.

Lithuania usually transfers ground equipment and ammunition to Ukraine. For example, at the beginning of the year, the country transferred man-portable anti-aircraft missile systems (MANPADS) as part of military assistance.

Lithuania’s support has primarily included ground equipment and munitions. At the end of 2024, it delivered man-portable air defense systems (MANPADS) to Ukraine, along with artillery shells, engineering equipment, drones, and spare parts for M113 armored personnel carriers.