Lithuania plans to allocate 2 billion euros for the purchase of tanks

Lithuania plans to purchase tanks worth 2 billion euros, which will be the country's largest defense purchase.

This was stated by the Chief Advisor to the President of Lithuania Kęstutis Budris, Delfi reports.

According to him, about 2 billion euros are planned to be allocated for the purchase of tanks.

"This will be one of Lithuania's largest purchases - not only for the army but for Lithuania as a whole. We are talking about 2 billion euros, including not only the cost of tanks, but also ammunition, logistics, and supplies. This is a large purchase," Budris said.

On Monday, after a meeting of the State Defense Council, National Defense Minister Arvydas Anušauskas mentioned that a protocol of intent to purchase tanks would be signed with German manufacturers in the near future.

However, on Tuesday, Budris said that no decision has been made on what kind of tanks Lithuania might buy.

In May, Lithuanian Army Commander Valdemaras Rupšys announced the formation of a light infantry division consisting of three brigades and a tank battalion in Lithuania. Rupšys emphasized that the formation of a tank battalion is necessary for the country, regardless of the decision to create a Lithuanian division.

Author - Olena Madiak, 25/07/2023