During the event Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda extended his gratitude "to the Netherlands for the opportunity to test the new rotary air defense model in Lithuania. In April this year, then Prime Minister Mark Rutte not only promised to provide the Patriot system but also ensured that the promise was kept. Such smooth cooperation is an inspiration for the future."

We are grateful for the dedication of our political and military authorities in facilitating the deployment of the Dutch Patriot system, and we extend our thanks to the Spanish and Portuguese fighter crews as a part of Baltic Air Policing for their participation. “The deployment of the Dutch Patriot air and missile defense system in Lithuania is an excellent example for the Allies and a solid step forward in the implementation of NATO's Rotational Model of Air Defense”, Minister of Defense Laurynas Kasčiūnas added.

The integration of our Patriot system with Lithuanian NASAMS units not only enhances interoperability but also paves the way for future deployments. This collaboration offers valuable training in rapid deployment, connectivity tests, and procedural transitions into air defense tasks.

Together, we are stronger!

Photo credits: Ministry of National Defence of Lithuania