Currently, the Lithuanian Armed Forces do not have a dedicated tank unit, but this will change with the formation of the new battalion, expected to be equipped with German-made Leopard 2 main battle tanks. To complement these tanks, the Lithuanian military plans to procure tracked infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs), enhancing operational synergy and effectiveness across varied terrains.
Minister Kasčiūnas underscored the importance of this acquisition during his address in the southern town of Alytus. “We are moving forward with tracked vehicles because we are forming a tank battalion,” he stated, noting that the formation will occur in phases, creating one company at a time. The first tanks are anticipated to arrive in Lithuania by 2027.
Lithuania has previously operated wheeled infantry fighting vehicles of the Vilkas type, acquired during the first phase of its IFV procurement program. However, these vehicles are not designed to keep pace with modern main battle tanks in off-road conditions. The shift to tracked IFVs aims to address this limitation, providing a more robust and adaptable force.
The Defence Ministry is currently in the analysis and negotiation phase for the acquisition of additional IFVs. This follows Lithuania’s 2016 contract for 88 Boxer IFVs and a subsequent plan to purchase 120 more. The specific type of IFV for the second phase is still under consideration.
