During the NATO Summit on 8 July, Norway and Lithuania signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) concerning Lithuania’s intended cooperation with Norway on standardized vessels, including the possible procurement of Norwegian-developed vessels for the Lithuanian Armed Forces.
Lithuania is considering procuring Norwegian-developed standardized vessels for its navy. Today’s signing marks an important step forward. Norway is viewed by Lithuania as a preferred strategic partner for this capability development, and the MoU lays the groundwork for Lithuania’s possible participation in the Norwegian-led Standardized Vessel Program
“It is now important to continue the technical, commercial and industrial work required to demonstrate that standardized vessels from Norway are the best choice for Lithuania”, said Norwegian minister of Defense, Tore O. Sandvik.
The signing of this government-to-government MoU with Lithuania marks another important milestone for the program and confirms the shared intention of both countries to move forward with structured cooperation on future naval capabilities.
– I am pleased to see that the cooperation and close ties between our two countries continue to strengthen, says Minister of Defense Tore O. Sandvik.
The Norwegian Armed Forces will have up to 28 new standardized vessels that will replace several of the current vessel classes.
– Norway has a goal of getting allied countries involved in the project. This will have several advantages. Having several countries use the same vessel can contribute to lower costs and better cross-border cooperation, both operationally and, for example, when it comes to training, operation and maintenance, says Sandvik.
An important principle in the project is that the vessels should be as civilian as possible – and as military as necessary. This helps to keep both acquisition and operating costs down, while giving the vessels the necessary operational capacity.
“Norway has a world-class maritime industry and a world-class defense industry. Together, they are well-equipped to deliver a cost-effective vessel that can meet allies’ future needs for this type of capability,” he says.