Lithuanian Forces Launch Local HIMARS Operations Training

The Lithuanian Land Forces have conducted their inaugural training exercises on the operation of HIMARS rocket systems within their own territory, supported by the U.S. Army.

According to a press release from the Lithuanian Armed Forces, the exercises—codenamed Leleka and Orel—were held from May 17 to May 23. The training aimed to prepare personnel for the effective and comprehensive deployment of these advanced American precision strike systems.

Over the course of a week, the military personnel underwent both theoretical training and practical exercises in fire control, technical maintenance, ammunition specialist preparation, and HIMARS operator training.

All theoretical components were adapted to practical requirements, which allowed for an overall improvement in the level of training.

HIMARS rocket systems, along with auxiliary equipment and vehicles from the 3rd Battalion, 321st Field Artillery Regiment of the U.S. Army, were delivered from Germany to support the exercises.

Lithuanian and American service members jointly performed tasks involving technical maintenance and inspection of the launchers, live-fire training, daytime and nighttime driving of the launchers, as well as practicing reloading and unloading procedures.

Live-fire exercises with HIMARS targeting maritime objectives over the Baltic Sea are scheduled for June.

It is worth noting that Lithuanian service members previously underwent HIMARS training in Germany, as reported on December 20, 2024.

Lithuanian Agreement

In December 2022, Lithuania signed an agreement with the United States to purchase eight M142 HIMARS multiple launch rocket system launchers along with an ammunition package that includes ATACMS ballistic missiles.

Overall, the Lithuanian government plans to purchase a wide range of munitions, including 36 GMLRS M30A2 missile pods and 36 GMLRS M31A2 Unitary High Explosive (HE) missile pods.

Additionally, the country has purchased 72 ER GMLRS XM403 and XM404 missile pods, capable of striking targets at distances of up to 150 kilometers.

Furthermore, Lithuania has purchased 18 M57 ATACMS operational-tactical ballistic missiles. The first deliveries of HIMARS rocket systems to Lithuania are expected in 2025.