Senior officers and personnel from the Albanian Land Force were also present at the event. The delivery forms part of Albania’s broader programme to modernise its armed forces and strengthen deterrence.
Minister Vengu described the delivery of the system as an important milestone for Albania’s defence. “Today, we deliver to the Land Force the Javelin system in its entirety, a component ordered years ago as part of our close cooperation with the United States. This system is not merely a symbol of strength and capability, but also a message of strategic clarity.”
The minister emphasised that long-term investment in defence is necessary to ensure national security. “The cost of preparedness is always lower than the cost of unpreparedness. Albania has chosen to invest in times of peace, with planning and fiscal discipline, in order to enhance credibility and deter risks through real capabilities.”
He also stressed that Albania’s military modernisation has a defensive purpose. “Albania does not arm itself to attack anyone, but so that no one may put it to the test.”
U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Nancy VanHorn said the delivery reflected the strong security partnership between the two countries. “The delivery of these Javelin missiles by the United States is tangible proof of our commitment to regional security and the strength of the NATO Alliance.”
VanHorn also highlighted the operational capabilities of the system. “These systems enable operators to relocate immediately after firing and have a top-attack capability, striking the most vulnerable point of enemy armor.”
She also noted that the Javelin system helps Albania meet its NATO capability targets and defence spending commitments. According to VanHorn, such investments are essential for Albania’s security and for the collective defence of the Alliance.
The number of Javelin systems delivered has not been disclosed by official sources. The system’s fire-and-forget capability allows operators to move immediately after launch while maintaining high effectiveness against armoured targets.
The Javelin anti-tank missile system is produced by the Javelin Joint Venture, a partnership between U.S. defence companies Lockheed Martin and Raytheon. It is widely used by NATO militaries and has been employed in active combat operations.
Albania ordered the system through U.S. Foreign Military Sales programmes as part of bilateral military cooperation. The investment forms part of the Albanian Armed Forces’ long-term modernisation strategy aimed at strengthening deterrence and aligning capabilities with NATO doctrine.
Albania is also increasing its defence spending to support modernisation efforts. Defence Minister Vengu said earlier this year that around half of the ministry’s 2026 budget will be directed towards acquiring military equipment from the United States, the United Kingdom and Israel.
The defence ministry’s budget for 2026 totals 58.9 billion leks, equivalent to about 72.3 million US dollars or 61 million euros. The procurement programme is intended to improve operational readiness and support Albania’s role within NATO.
