Lithuania says defence spending typically rises toward year-end
Lithuania's Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas stated that the country's slow defense spending in the first half of the year is standard procedure, with major acquisitions planned for the year-end. The government aims to allocate 5.38 percent of its GDP to defense by 2030 to support the development of an army division and host a German brigade.
Why it matters
As Baltic nations increase military spending due to regional security concerns, the efficiency of procurement processes is critical for NATO's eastern flank stability.
MEDININKAI, Vilnius District - After Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevicius reported that Lithuania had used only 30 percent of its defence budget in the first half of the year, Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas said this was standard procedure, with the remainder typically spent toward the end of the year.
According to the minister, less than 30 percent of appropriations were used during the same period in 2024 and 2025. Kaunas noted that this year's performance was an improvement, despite an overall increase in defence funding.
Kaunas said the remaining funds were earmarked for major defence acquisitions, including infantry fighting vehicles and transport vehicles. The Ministry of National Defence also plans to submit a proposal to the government for the acquisition of interceptor drones.
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