2025-12-12 09:36
publication
2025-12-12 09:36
Next year, Lithuania will allocate EUR 4.79 billion, or 5.38%, for defense. GDP – results from the budget act approved by the Parliament. Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas emphasized that these are record-high expenditures for this purpose in the history of the country.
The state budget for this year allocates EUR 3.34 billion for defense, i.e. 4.01 percent. GDP.
In terms of expenditure for this purpose in relation to GDP, “in 2026, Lithuania will become the leader among the NATO (countries) investing the most in defense” – noted Kaunas, quoted in the press release from the Ministry of Defense. “This proves our country's strong commitment to collective defense and creates conditions for significantly accelerating the modernization of the army and preparing for possible challenges,” he added.
The statement emphasized that “higher financing will enable significant acceleration of the creation of the national division, modernization of the Lithuanian army and fundamental strengthening of the country's defense potential.”
60 percent funds from the budget of the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense are to be allocated to the modernization and development of the Lithuanian army. “This will enable faster development of defense capabilities that respond to security challenges in the region and are compliant with NATO standards,” we read in the statement.
The country's defense budget provides for the allocation of EUR 1.7 billion for the purchase of weapons and military equipment; air defense was indicated among the priorities. Approximately EUR 100 million is allocated for NASAMS medium-range air defense systems, and approximately EUR 60 million for MSHORAD short-range mobile air defense systems. EUR 145 million was allocated for the implementation of integrated air defense against drones.
Lithuania will continue to support Ukraine financially and militarily next year. 0.25% is allocated for this purpose. GDP of Lithuania.
The budget law adopted on Thursday assumes that state revenues next year, including funds from the European Union, will amount to EUR 21.07 billion, and expenses – EUR 27.51 billion (also including EU funds). Expenditures will therefore exceed revenues by EUR 6.44 billion. Public debt will amount to 45.4%. GDP. The budget deficit in 2026 is expected to be 2.7%. GDP, and after taking into account spending on military purchases – 5%. GDP.
The budget bill still requires the signature of President Gitanas Nauseda.
From Vilnius Aleksandra Akińczo (PAP)
aki/ akl/
