An additional Action Plan for the Defence and Security Industry for almost EUR 37 million has been approved
As a part of the implementation of the Guidelines for the Development of the Defence and Security Industry, approved last year, an Action Plan for the Implementation of the Guidelines has been signed by four Ministers on the initiative of the Ministry of Economy (EIM). In addition to regulatory measures, it provides for allocation of more than EUR 36.3 million for implementation of the activities identified in the plan, which will help to further exploit the potential of defence and security industry of Lithuania, which has become even more important in the wake of the Russian-led war in Ukraine.
“The defence and security industry is one of the highest priorities and fastest growing industrial sectors in Lithuania. Over the last five years, the number of employees in defence companies has increased by around 14% and the total turnover of the defence sector has almost doubled in this period. Therefore, we continue to work hard to create a more favourable environment for business, both financially and through regulatory measures. In addition, by creating an environment conducive to the growth of the national defence industry as a whole, we are working together to meet the defence and security needs of Lithuania and Europe as a whole,” said Aušrinė Armonaitė, the Minister of Economy.
The Action Plan approved by the joint agreement of the Ministers will provide additional incentives and opportunities for the accelerated growth of Lithuanian defence and security companies, increase the competitiveness of the defence and security industry, and promote innovation and investment in the defence and security industry. It will also encourage the export of Lithuanian products, which would ensure close cooperation between national defence, public security institutions, research institutions and business in the field of national defence and security.
“In the face of the Russian war, we need to make every effort to ensure that the European defence industry is able to meet the security and defence needs of both Ukraine and the EU and the NATO. Currently, the EU is making targeted efforts to give a boost to the development of the European defence industry, and it is crucial for Lithuanian companies to join the European defence industry chains through specific projects and initiatives, become an integral part of the security and defence of the EU and NATO, thus, strengthening the defence capabilities of Lithuania,” notes Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabriel Landsbergis.
The Plan also provides funding for the promotion of applied research and experimental development projects in the field of defence and security, as well as a strong focus on the development of defence innovation.
“Reality has shown that the defence industry must be able to respond to the changing challenges. It is important to effectively adapt and adjust to the military and public needs. The creation, development and integration of modern technologies, advanced weapon systems must gradually emerge in Lithuania, thus, laying the foundations for cooperation, developing innovation, clarifying the roles of institutions and, undoubtedly, allocating funds for the specific programmes and projects are the first, but very important steps towards achieving these objectives. I believe that the concerted efforts of all institutions will further strengthen the development of the defence sector and will allow us to address the emerging challenges more effectively,” said the Minister of National Defence Laurynas Kasčiūnas.
The implementation of the actions outlined in the plan will be further supported by cooperation with public authorities, associated defence and security and other industry organisations, research and study institutions and other interested bodies that have been involved in the development of these initiatives.
“The Ministry of the Interior will include all relevant information on planned procurement and research needs in the Plan for the Development of the Defence and Security Industry. Smooth cooperation between the police and the defence industry at expert level is encouraging. We will continue to do our utmost to ensure that our contribution and cooperation will bring maximum benefit to the defence industry,” said the Minister of the Interior Agnė Bilotaitė.
The Ministry of Economy encourages Lithuanian companies to participate in international programmes and defence exhibitions. In order to foster the development of the defence and security industry ecosystem and closer cooperation between business, science and the army, the Innovation Agency is planning to create a defence innovation inter-institutional cooperation platform MilTech Lab.
Smooth implementation of the measures set out in the Plan will also boost exports, in particular, in the defence and security industry, such as the development of new internationally competitive defence and security products and technologies, the development and improvement of semiconductors, lasers and optics, and the development and introduction of cyber security systems.
The Plan for Implementation of the Guidelines for the Development of the Defence and Security Industry of Lithuania was approved by the joint Order of the Minister of Economy, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of National Defence and the Minister of the Interior.
Last year, the Guidelines for the Development of the Defence and Security Industry of Lithuania 2023–2027, which contribute to exploiting the potential of the defence and security industry of Lithuania, were approved by a resolution of four ministers.
Last updated: 29-08-2024
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