We are pleased to share with you the May 2026 edition of BALTIC INSIGHT – a monthly review providing clear, concise, and reliable analysis of key military, security, and defense developments across the Baltic region. In this edition, we highlight the most important events, emerging trends, and strategic shifts shaping the regional security environment.
Lithuania orders a second HIMARS battery
Lithuania and the United States signed a supplemental agreement for the acquisition of a second battery of M142 HIMARS rocket artillery systems.
The approximately 8 million deal includes additional launchers, missiles, training, and support equipment, strengthening Lithuania’s deterrence capabilities and reinforcing NATO’s eastern flank while expanding its investment in U.S. defence systems.
Lithuania and Lockheed Martin expand defence industrial cooperation
Lithuania and Lockheed Martin signed a cooperation agreement to expand defence industrial collaboration and integrate Lithuanian companies into global defence supply chains.
The agreement covers missile technologies, maintenance, training, and integration solutions, supporting the development of Lithuania’s defence industry while strengthening its role in the broader defence technology ecosystem and NATO capability development.
Lithuania to buy 936 Finnish Patria armoured vehicles
On 27 May, Lithuania announced plans to acquire up to 936 Finnish-made Patria 6x6 armoured vehicles as part of its military modernisation programme.
The €1.5 billion project, running through 2036, will enhance troop transport, medical, engineering, and air defence capabilities while supporting Lithuania’s goal of fully developing its national military division by 2030 and expanding domestic defence-industrial capacity.
Origin Robotics expands European access to BLAZE interceptor drone system
On 19 May, Latvia-based defence technology company Origin Robotics announced a multi-year framework agreement with the Latvian Armed Forces for the supply of its BLAZE autonomous interceptor drone system.
The agreement, financed through the EU’s SAFE instrument, supports growing demand for counter-UAS capabilities in Europe and enables additional countries to join through government-to-government cooperation while ensuring continued access to the system’s latest upgrades.
Dutch armed forces to test drones at the new Sēlija military training ground
On 27 May, Latvia and the Netherlands signed a memorandum on closer cooperation in defence innovation, drone testing, and military exercises during the Drone Summit in Riga.
The agreement will enable Dutch forces to use Latvia’s Sēlija military training ground for drone and counter-drone training, while supporting the development of new capabilities and strengthening bilateral defence cooperation.
NATO fighter jet shoots down drone over Estonia
On 19 May, a drone that entered Estonian airspace was intercepted and shot down by a Romanian Air Force F-16 deployed to Lithuania as part of NATO’s Baltic Air Policing mission.
The drone was detected following advance warning from Latvia, highlighting the importance of regional air surveillance, cross-border cooperation, and allied readiness amid increased electronic warfare activity in the Baltic region.
Latvia to build army logistics and storage complex in Nīkrāce
Latvia announced plans to build a €100 million military logistics and storage complex in Nīkrāce Parish through a public-private partnership.
Scheduled for completion by 2029, the project will enhance military logistics, support allied troop presence, and complement the development of the Sēlija military training area by revitalising a former Soviet military site that has remained largely abandoned since the end of the Soviet era.
Lithuania develops long-range drone strike capability through new ANBO unit
Lithuania expands its military capabilities through the creation of a new drone warfare unit.
The Lithuanian Armed Forces have established the ANBO unit, bringing together the country’s leading drone specialists under a dedicated command structure.
The unit will focus on long-range offensive drone operations, testing new technologies and supporting cooperation with the defense industry.
The future systems could be capable of striking targets more than 100 kilometers inside enemy territory, with some prototypes offering ranges of up to 200 kilometers.
Latvia strengthens allied air defence cooperation through NATO exercises
Latvia hosted and prepared for a series of multinational air defence exercises aimed at strengthening NATO interoperability and regional security.
Activities included the exercise Latvian Shield I-26, featuring the deployment of a Spanish NASAMS unit to eastern Latvia, and preparations for Baltic Zenith 2026, which will bring together forces from Latvia, Lithuania, Sweden, and Canada to enhance short-range air defence capabilities and allied cooperation.