Lithuania sees stockpile building as key deterrent

LONDON — Lithuania is determined to make stockpile building a critical component of its defense policy, according to a government official.

“Stockpiles serve as a deterrent against potential aggression,” Lithuanian Deputy Economy and Innovation Minister Erika Kuročkina said in a broadcast speech during this year’s DSEI show here.

“Ammunition is the lifeblood of any military operation,” the cabinet member said. “But a nation with a robust stockpile can also support its allies.”

On Sept. 8, the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence said it has completed a delivery of more than 1.5 million rounds of ammunition to Ukraine to support its combat against the ongoing Russian invasion.

The official’s declaration comes roughly four months after Vilnius announced plans to spend about €3.1 billion ($3.3 billion) on purchases of ammunition and explosives in the coming decade, citing lessons drawn from Russia’s ongoing attack against its neighbor.

Kuročkina’s remarks indicate major deliveries of munitions could represent a significant share of the Baltic State’s defense acquisitions in the coming years.

More In Europe

Continuing resolution would slow military modernization, services warn

The Navy, for example, would have $26 billion in the wrong places, and would need Congress to approve $13 billion in formal reprogrammings.

Missile warning payload delay could push back 2025 launch plans

The late payload is being developed by RTX and will be integrated onto a Lockheed Martin satellite.

Space Futures Command could begin limited operations this year

Chief of Space Operations Gen. Chance Saltzman announced the creation of the command Feb. 12 as part of a slate of organizational changes.

Space Force’s fixed-price push includes some exceptions, Calvelli says

While the Space Force's acquisition executive stands by his drive for fixed-price contracts, he acknowledged some programs require a more nuanced approach.

Embraer sees strong demand for C-390 Millennium airlifter in Asia

Officials said they plan to take the C-390 plane on display at the Singapore Airshow to other countries in the region before returning to Brazil.