**Lithuanian Defense Minister Praises Ukrainian Maritime Drone, Plans Joint Production**
In a significant move to strengthen ties with Ukraine, Lithuania’s Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė has praised the effectiveness of Ukraine’s Magura V5 maritime drone. The minister expressed interest in jointly producing this and other military products, including surface attack drones, missile drones, and other weaponry.
The Magura V5 is a Ukrainian multipurpose unmanned surface vessel that has proven highly effective in the Black Sea. It has successfully carried out various missions, including surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat operations. One notable success was when a Magura drone equipped with American AIM-9 missiles shot down a Russian Su-30 fighter jet.
Lithuania’s plans to jointly produce military products with Ukraine follow a “1+1” formula, where one unit is produced for Lithuania and another for Ukraine. The minister explained that this means the country pays for the production of two units, but only receives one. This approach allows both countries to benefit from joint production without having to bear the full cost.
**Lithuania’s Support for Ukraine**
This announcement comes as Lithuania has pledged significant support to Ukraine in recent months. In April, the country pledged 30 million euros ($34 mn) for various forms of military assistance to Kyiv. Additionally, the Drone Coalition, which includes Lithuania, allocated 20 million euros ($23 mn) from a joint fund to purchase tactical-level intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) drones for Ukraine’s Defense Forces.
Just last month, Lithuania’s Ministry of National Defense directed 10 million euros ($11 mn) toward the production of modern Ukrainian long-range weapons. This significant investment highlights Lithuania’s commitment to supporting Ukraine in its efforts against Russian aggression.
**Commentary**
Lithuania’s decision to praise the Magura V5 and plan joint production is a testament to the country’s confidence in Ukraine’s military capabilities. By embracing Ukrainian technology, Lithuania demonstrates a willingness to strengthen ties with its Eastern neighbor and demonstrate solidarity in the face of Russian aggression.
As tensions between Russia and the West continue to rise, this development highlights the importance of NATO member states supporting each other through joint production and defense initiatives. It also underscores the need for innovation and cooperation in the military sphere, particularly in the face of emerging threats from unmanned systems like maritime drones.
**Analysis**
This move by Lithuania has significant implications for regional security dynamics. By embracing Ukrainian technology, Lithuania is sending a clear message that it values its relationship with Ukraine and is willing to invest in its defense capabilities. This development will undoubtedly be watched closely by other NATO member states, particularly those bordering Russia.
Moreover, this joint production initiative could serve as a model for future collaboration between Western nations on emerging technologies like unmanned systems. By working together to develop and produce cutting-edge military products, countries can reduce costs, improve efficiency, and enhance their collective security posture.
As the world continues to grapple with the implications of technological advancements in the military sphere, Lithuania’s commitment to embracing Ukrainian innovation demonstrates a forward-thinking approach that will likely be studied by policymakers and defense experts around the globe.
