The Foreign Minister noted the importance of further increasing defence investment. “We understand the important role of your company and the European defence industry as a whole in contributing to our security, especially in light of the challenges of the Russian aggression in Ukraine. The willingness of the European defence industry to increase production volumes in real terms is one of the most effective elements aimed at deterring Russia and is an important component of the security of the whole region,” said Landsbergis.
In their discussions, interlocutors highlighted the importance of strengthening cooperation between Lithuanian defence industry companies and the Italian defence giant Leonardo, especially in the high-tech field, aiming to better integrate Lithuanian companies into the Leonardo Group’s value chains. Lansbergis underlined the interest of Lithuanian businesses in continuing cooperation with Leonardo Group companies within the framework of the European Defence Fund.
“Lithuania appreciates Italy’s support for Ukraine’s security and welcomes the opportunity to cooperate. I believe that the already ongoing cooperation between Lithuanian companies and Leonardo Group companies in implementing the European Defence Fund projects will only grow stronger in the future,” the Foreign Minister said.
The Foreign Minister presented the newly adopted Law on the Defence and Security Industry of Lithuania, which provides an opportunity to implement defence and security industry projects faster and more efficiently in Lithuania. Lansbergis also invited the Italian company Leonardo to take advantage of the favourable conditions and legal framework created for defence industry activities in Lithuania.
Currently, Lithuania’s defence industry consists of about 80 companies producing ammunition, unmanned aircraft systems, night vision devices, optics, electronic components, and information and communication technology solutions.
One of the world’s largest manufacturers of high-tech technology, Leonardo is a leader in aerospace, defence, and security and a technological partner of governments and companies. It is the 12th largest defence company globally and the largest in the European Union.
