Mon Sep 16 15:45:58 UTC 2024: ## Lithuania Aims for 4% of GDP on Defence Spending, Focusing on Long-Range Systems
**Vilnius, Lithuania (September 17, 2024)** – Lithuanian Defence Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas has called for a significant increase in defence spending, aiming to reach 4% of GDP. The move comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions and Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine.
Kasčiūnas, speaking at the ruling Homeland Union-Lithuanian Christian Democrats’ congress, stated his belief that a 4% defence budget is necessary to maintain existing capabilities and invest in new equipment, including long-range air defence systems and combat helicopters. This would allow Lithuania to implement a national Patriot program, enhancing its ability to defend against potential threats.
The proposal surpasses the 3.5% target previously outlined by President Gitanas Nausėda. While the current security and defence agreement between Lithuanian political parties doesn’t specify defence spending levels, parliament earlier this year raised taxes to ensure a minimum of 3% of GDP is allocated.
Lithuania’s commitment to defence is evident in its 2023 allocation of 2.8% of GDP to defence, with an additional €130 million designated for arms procurement in August, pushing this year’s spending to 3.2%. The country’s strategic location on NATO’s eastern flank, bordering Russia and Belarus, underlines the need for strengthened defence capabilities. Lithuania is set to host a permanent German brigade of 4,000 troops starting in the first half of 2025, further solidifying its role in the alliance.
First Piper 