Northrop Grumman to help Lithuania produce medium-calibre ammunition

Lithuanian Boxer infantry fighting vehicles are equipped with a Rafael Samson Mk II RWS armed with a 30 mm cannon. (Lithuanian MoD)

Northrop Grumman has signed an agreement with the Lithuanian government to help Lithuanian industry to produce medium-calibre ammunition, according to a company statement on 23 September. Under the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Lithuanian Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Finance, Northrop Grumman will be able to share technology and advanced manufacturing expertise with Lithuanian industry in accordance with US policy, the statement said.

Supporting the domestic defence industrial capabilities of allies will help replenish stockpiles and strengthen munitions supply chains, according to Northrop Grumman.

The project is expected to involve co-operation with the state-owned Giraitės Ginkluotės Gamykla (Giraitė Armaments Plant) in Kaunas, Finance Minister Gintarė Skaistė said in the statement. The plant is the only ammunition manufacturer in the Baltic states, according to the company website. Production is currently focused on small-arms ammunition, including 5.56×45 mm and 7.62×51 mm NATO ball rounds.

Partnership with companies from close allies is a “major boost for the long-term growth and modernisation of Lithuania's defence industry”, noted Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė.

Integrating advanced US technologies will strengthen Lithuanian national security as well as support future innovations, according to Defence Minister Laurynas Kasčiūnas.

Northrop Grumman offers a complete family of 30 mm tactical and training ammunition for land-, air-, and sea-based platforms, noted the statement. Lithuania has acquired a fleet of Boxer infantry fighting vehicles armed with a 30 mm cannon.

Northrop Grumman had not responded to Janes queries at the time of publication.

For more information, please seeLithuania completes first phase of Boxer procurement.