Lithuania is bolstering its air defense capabilities with Swedish Giraffe radars
The Lithuanian Ministry of Defense has officially announced the purchase of new-generation Giraffe 1X radar stations from the Saab defense group.
These modern systems are designed to significantly improve the detection of small aerial targets, which is critical for ensuring the security of the country’s airspace.
The latest mobile 3D systems provide continuous 360° surveillance, enabling the rapid detection of threats from any direction.
The agency emphasized: “Mobile 3D systems provide 360° surveillance, rapid deployment, and improved detection of small aerial threats, which will enhance our response to modern challenges.”
A key feature of the Giraffe 1X is its rapid deployment capability and ability to track targets that were previously difficult to detect using traditional means.
In addition to radars, the Lithuanian government plans to purchase specialized interceptor drones that have already been tested in real combat conditions in Ukraine.
The issue of air defense is extremely pressing for Vilnius due to constant incidents along the border with Belarus.
Lithuania regularly detects flights of “hybrid” weather balloons used to transport contraband.
Since the capital’s airport is located just 20 kilometers from the border, such objects often force air traffic controllers to completely suspend air traffic.
In addition to weather balloons, border guards have detected attempts to use unmanned aerial vehicles for the illegal transport of goods.
New Swedish radars will allow Lithuanian defense forces to more accurately identify such small objects and respond in a timely manner to violations of the state border.
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