All 500 JLTVs were manufactured by Oshkosh Defense LLC for Lithuania’s requirements. As a result, the Lithuanian Armed Forces rank among the largest users of JLTV vehicles worldwide and the largest operator outside the United States.
The procurement program was launched in 2019, when Vilnius initially ordered 200 vehicles through the FMS framework. These were delivered by the end of 2023, and a second tranche of 300 additional vehicles was subsequently acquired, also through FMS.
The vehicles were procured in the standard armored patrol and transport configuration. They are equipped, among other systems, with remotely operated CROWS weapon stations or traditional mounts for the 12.7 mm M2 heavy machine gun, and part of the fleet will serve as platforms for the RBS 70NG short-range air defense system.
Minister of National Defence Robertas Kaunas said, “We have finalized a strategic stage of Lithuanian Armed Forces capability enhancement which significantly supports development of the national division and deterrence.” He added, “The Lithuanian Armed Forces currently has 500 Joint Light Tactical Vehicles with high crew safety and mobility features at its disposal.”
“The armored vehicles will support reconnaissance, fire support and command operations. As air defence remains our top priority, part of the purchased vehicles are RBS70 NG short-range air defence system-capable,” the minister said, noting that the outcome reflects a long-standing and trusted partnership with the United States.
According to U.S. Ambassador to Lithuania Kara C. McDonald, the completion of deliveries makes Lithuania the largest JLTV operator outside the United States. “This is a historical achievement which reflects the mastery of the American engineering and the strength of Lithuania’s, one of the leading defence spender’s NATO-wide, commitment.”
“The JLTV will boost Lithuania’s rapid response capability and improve its interoperability with the Allies. This is why our bilateral partnership is so important. It is an example of a meaningful burden-sharing that once again underlines the strength of the bond between Lithuania and the United States,” the Ambassador says.
The JLTV acquisition is one of several technical modernization programs pursued by Lithuania’s Ministry of National Defence involving U.S. industry. Other key projects include the procurement of Lockheed Martin UH-60M Black Hawk multi-role transport helicopters and RTX AIM-120 AMRAAM guided missiles.
The Lithuanian government has announced plans to increase defense spending to 5–6 percent of GDP in 2026–2030. This policy is intended to accelerate capability development, strengthen comprehensive deterrence, and support the planned full development of the national division by 2030 in line with NATO standards.
Source: Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence.
