Lithuania Plans to Enhance Its Capabilities with Norwegian Vanguard Ships to Tackle Baltic Challenges.

Lithuania is currently evaluating the acquisition of Vanguard-class multirole military ships from Norway. This initiative, announced by Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovilė Šakalienė during a joint press conference with her Norwegian counterpart Tore O. Sandvik, follows bilateral discussions held in Lithuania, as reported by LRT. According to Šakalienė, proposals are under review, and both countries are assessing ship models that could meet Lithuania’s specific operational requirements.
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The Vanguard stands out due to its open architecture and modular design, which allows for the rapid integration of interchangeable mission modules built to ISO standards (Picture source: Kongsberg)

The talks focus on the potential purchase of modular Vanguard-class vessels, known for their operational versatility. Designed by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace in cooperation with Salt Ship Design, this modular warship concept was developed to address a wide range of missions for coastal nations, both military and civilian. These include search and rescue, port and infrastructure protection, underwater surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, mine countermeasures, maritime sovereignty operations, and hybrid threat response.

The Vanguard stands out due to its open architecture and modular design, which allows for the rapid integration of interchangeable mission modules built to ISO standards. It can deploy unmanned aerial, surface, and underwater vehicles (UAVs, USVs, UUVs), and features a multirole hangar to support them. The vessel is also equipped with a flight deck designed to accommodate medium-sized helicopters of up to 15 tonnes.

Technically, the Vanguard measures approximately 130 meters in length, 19 meters in width, with a draft of 5.2 meters, and an estimated displacement of 5,000 tonnes. It is powered by an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system, enabling a maximum speed of 25 knots and a range of around 6,000 nautical miles at a cruising speed of 15 knots. It operates with a reduced crew size, which can vary depending on mission requirements, contributing to significantly lower operational costs.

The Vanguard can be armed based on operational needs. It is designed to accommodate a 76 mm naval gun on the bow, vertical launch systems (VLS) for surface-to-air missiles, torpedo tubes, and remotely operated weapons systems. The use of civilian standards in its design allows for estimated cost savings of up to 50% compared to traditional warships, while maintaining operational adaptability.

Logistical considerations also play a key role in Lithuania’s strategic assessment. Šakalienė emphasized that standardizing with Norwegian ship models could help avoid past issues linked to non-standard military equipment, such as long-term maintenance, supply, and repair difficulties. This approach aims to improve operational sustainability and enhance allied cooperation.

The initiative could also mark a turning point for Lithuania’s defense industry. The minister expressed interest in involving local companies in the production of certain ship components, excluding weapon systems. This would help stimulate the domestic defense sector and create new economic and technological opportunities locally.

The bilateral meeting also reviewed progress on the NASAMS air defense program, an ongoing project between Lithuania and Norway in partnership with Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace. Šakalienė confirmed that the project is on schedule, with a second delivery expected next year and a third planned for 2028.

Norwegian Defence Minister Tore O. Sandvik reaffirmed Norway’s commitment to regional security, particularly through NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission. He outlined Oslo’s investment priorities, which include frigates, submarines, helicopters, main battle tanks, and other defense systems. Regarding regional air defense, Sandvik highlighted ongoing coordination with Nordic partners and noted the operational readiness of Norway’s F-35 fleet.

Lastly, regional cooperation on underwater infrastructure security has recently been reinforced. Lithuania, Norway, and eight other European countries signed a memorandum of understanding to protect critical underwater infrastructure in the Baltic Sea. The agreement emphasizes safeguarding undersea cables and pipelines, strengthening supply chain resilience, improving underwater monitoring, and enhancing rapid repair capabilities.

Lithuania’s plan to acquire Norwegian multirole ships reflects a broader strategy focused on military modernization, regional industrial integration, and enhanced security cooperation with Nordic partners. If implemented, this move could reinforce Lithuania’s naval capabilities and significantly support the growth of its domestic defense industry.