Lithuania announces new military aid package for Ukraine at Ramstein meeting.

In a meeting that took place on September 19, 2023, gathering the new Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umierov and Lithuania's National Defense Minister Arvydas Anušauskas, a comprehensive new aid package was presented aimed at improving Ukraine's defense capabilities. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Ramstein format gathering of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group.
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Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umierov and Lithuania's National Defense Minister Arvydas Anušauskas at the Ramstein meeting (Picture source: Lithuanian MoD )

The two ministers discussed Lithuania's support for Ukraine, which amounts to nearly half a billion dollars in aid. The focus of the conversation was on Ukraine's immediate needs in its struggle against Russian forces. Anušauskas emphasized the significance of the newly formed demining coalition in Ukraine during the Ramstein group meeting. He also held a separate meeting with Croatia's Defense Minister Mario Banožić to explore potential avenues for bilateral cooperation between Lithuania and Croatia.

The latest Lithuanian military aid package for Ukraine includes advanced detonation systems, naval surveillance radars, and ammunition for the Carl Gustaf anti-tank grenade launcher. Additionally, Lithuania has initiated the repair of Leopard tanks for the Ukrainian military, starting this month.

Among Lithuania's most notable contributions are air defense systems, including two NASAMS launchers and portable NASAMs systems. In February 2022, Lithuania also provided FIM-92 Stinger MANPADS portable air defense systems, thereby strengthening Ukraine's anti-air capabilities.

Regarding anti-aircraft artillery, 36 Bofors L70s anti-aircraft guns have been delivered starting from February 2023. Lithuania has also planned to deliver two Mi-8 helicopters to enhance the mobility and rapid response capabilities of Ukrainian forces. In terms of towed artillery, 18 105mm M101 howitzers were delivered in September 2022, while 12 120mm Panzermörser M113 self-propelled mortars were added in November of the same year. Ukrainian ground forces also received 18 120mm heavy mortars in April 2022. To improve troop mobility and protection, 72 M113 and M577 armored personnel carriers have been delivered starting from June 2022.

In June 2022, 10 military trucks and 10 Mitsubishi L200 vehicles intended for demining operations were sent. Arctic Trucks AT42 off-road vehicles are also awaiting delivery. Additionally, seven Toyota Land Cruiser armored SUVs were delivered in October 2022, and five Land Rover off-road vehicles are planned for April 2023.

This diversified military aid from Lithuania underscores its commitment to supporting Ukraine in the conflict against Russia. In another sign of solidarity, Lithuania also signed a Declaration of Intent to support an IT assistance coalition for Ukraine during the Ramstein meeting.