Lithuania Seeks Deeper Defense Pact With India

Baltic Nation Eyes Cybersecurity, Drones, and Weaponry Collaboration

Vilnius is eager to enhance its defense relationship with India, exploring cooperation in vital areas like cybersecurity, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and potentially sourcing Indian-made weaponry. The move comes as Lithuania, a NATO member bordering Russia, bolsters its defenses amid regional security concerns.

Strategic Partnership Discussions

Lithuanian Vice-Minister of National Defence, Karolis Aleksa, expressed a strong desire for more structured talks with India on a range of defense matters. He highlighted the potential for joint efforts in cybersecurity, noting that cyber threats unite many nations, with Russia and China identified as major actors.

“I believe we have to start talking in a more structured way… talk about what can be done.”

—Karolis Aleksa, Lithuanian Vice-Minister of National Defence

Lithuania, facing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, has significantly increased its defense spending to 5% of GDP. The nation views itself as a frontline state within NATO, emphasizing the need for robust security measures.

Cybersecurity and Drone Cooperation

Aleksa emphasized the importance of sharing experiences and developing countermeasures to enhance cyber resilience. He indicated that discussions on countering UAV threats are also a priority, acknowledging a shared global challenge in this domain. India already collaborates with Estonia, another Baltic nation, on cyber issues.

Exploring Indian Defense Manufacturing

The Lithuanian vice-minister revealed interest in India’s defense industry, particularly in “NATO-compatible and combat-efficient” weaponry. While it’s early days, Lithuania is keen to understand the capabilities available through defense expositions. The efficiency of logistics chains is also a consideration for the nation.

Lithuania, previously part of the Soviet Union, has been actively strengthening its national defense industry alongside increased spending. Aleksa stated the goal is to be prepared should the need arise, exploring diverse defense solutions.

Frontline State Concerns

With Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, Lithuania remains concerned, viewing itself as particularly vulnerable. Aleksa pointed to Russia’s past demands regarding NATO’s eastward expansion, suggesting a desire to diminish security guarantees for Eastern European nations. He described the invasion of Ukraine as a significant threat, fearing they could be next.

In response to these geopolitical realities, Lithuania is enhancing its military structure, aiming for a fully interoperable infantry division with three brigades. Germany is set to permanently deploy a brigade in Lithuania, adding to the existing contingent of American troops, for which Aleksa expressed gratitude.

Further security measures include expanding the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union and training civilians in drone operation, aiming to bolster national readiness. Beyond conventional threats, Lithuania is vigilant against “hybrid activities” like sabotage and misinformation campaigns orchestrated by Russia.

Russia’s attempts to distort historical narratives, including questioning Ukraine’s nationhood, are also a concern, with similar efforts now targeting Lithuanian and Baltic history. The nation is actively working on deterrence and strengthening its defenses against a complex threat landscape.