A delegation of Ukraine’s air defence and autonomous systems experts paid a visit to the Defence Staff of the Lithuanian Armed Forces. The team of experienced combat defenders of Ukrainian cities against the Russian air raids and missiles included members currently responsible for air and missile defence in a large part of the Ukrainian territory, including Kyiv.
The guests were briefed on Lithuania’s airspace surveillance and control system, air defence capabilities, trajectory of their further development and expansion. Both sides also discussed threat assessment, readiness to respond to airspace violations and the risks they posed to national security.
The meeting revolved predominantly around uncrewed systems and the long-range strike autonomous systems in combat. Priorities of the small air defence capabilities, drone detection and neutralisation solutions, effectiveness of electronic warfare means, as well as possibilities of integration of air situational awareness and early warning systems were discussed. The Ukrainian experts shared practical insights on the currently used systems, their efficiency and solutions that could be applicable for strengthening Lithuania’s capabilities with good results.
“The Armed Forces of Ukraine have essentially the most impressive practical experience to date worldwide in countering different types of air threats, from missiles to uncrewed systems. The opportunity to share experience directly gives us a unique view on arising threats and a chance for effective planning of the Lithuanian air defence capabilities,” said Rear Admiral Giedrius Premeneckas.
Other topics discussed were Ukraine’s lessons learned in the area of air defence and gained combat experience. The experts helped colleagues from the Lithuanian Air Forces and the Training and Doctrine Command to assess the Lithuanian air defence plans, analyse the possibilities of integrating drone and other autonomous systems, and addressed the most pivotal lessons of this war to date.
The meeting sides talked about prospects of security and defence cooperation as well. They particularly focused on air defence, airspace surveillance and situational awareness procedures, means and experience. It was underscored that the cooperation was conducted across all levels, from military command to direct collaboration between units. Lithuanian troops are constantly exchanging experience with Ukrainian military units conducting frontline missions maintaining a partnership that strengthens defensive capabilities of both countries.
