The Lithuanian army received this week a batch of American JLTV armored vehicles under the second contract.

The Ministry of National Defense of Lithuania reported on this.

The delivered batch of equipment consists of more than 150 units.

“The new batch of Joint Light Tactical Vehicles delivered to Lithuania this week once again demonstrates the close cooperation between the Lithuanian and U.S. militaries. These armored all-terrain vehicles will also be used as a platform for short-range air defense systems,” stated Minister of National Defense Laurynas Kasčiūnas.

Lithuania received the first batch of 35 JLTVs under the second contract in March 2024.

The procurement of JLTV armored vehicles for the Lithuanian army began in 2019 with the signing of a contract between the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defense and the United States government.

The first deal involved the supply of 200 vehicles to Lithuania. The first batch of vehicles arrived in August 2021, and the last one was delivered in December last year.

A certain number of these vehicles are equipped with a remote-controlled CROWS system with a 12.7 mm machine gun.

In October 2022, a second contract was signed for 300 additional armored vehicles, including weapons, spare parts, and necessary tools. The JLTVs will be armed with 12.7 mm M2 QCB machine guns.

The country will receive a total of 500 vehicles.

The RBS70 NG short-range air defense systems, which Lithuania ordered in July 2024, will be installed on JLTV armored vehicles. Delivery of these air defense systems is scheduled for 2025-2027.

The Ministry of National Defense of Lithuania noted that the new equipment will significantly enhance the current capabilities of the Lithuanian army, increase its mobility, personnel protection, and combat power.