Eight Lithuanian defence and security industry firms and research institutions have signed a letter of intent with Brazil’s Embraer Corporation, one of the world’s largest aerospace and defence technology manufacturers, the Lithuanian Defence and Security Industry Association announced on Monday.
“The agreement represents the first official attempt to apply the principle of industrial cooperation, or offset, in defence procurement in Lithuania,” the statement said.
Vaidas Sabaliauskas, the association’s director, told BNS that the letter was signed by J&C Aero, a company specialising in aircraft interiors; Aktyvus Photonics, a developer of laser technologies; Baltic Progressive Technology Institute (BPTI), a private research institute; Brolis Semiconductors; DAT, a Danish Aircraft Charter, Maintenance and Insurance (ACMI) company; Kaunas University of Technology; Vilnius Tech; and Nordic Aircraft Systems, an aircraft maintenance firm.
“It is possible that we may not be able to collaborate with all of these companies. But at the very least, it is a positive first step, a sign of engagement with Lithuanian industry and businesses,” Sabaliauskas told BNS.
He added that once Embraer aircraft are acquired, the installation of their internal equipment, technical maintenance, and research and innovation development could be carried out in Lithuania.
“These are the initial steps, and it is expected that more companies will join in cooperation with Embraer,” he said.
Embraer develops and manufactures both military and civilian aircraft, electronic systems, radars and other advanced technology solutions.
Lithuania plans to purchase three Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. Some members of the Seimas have questioned the decision, describing the acquisition as a low priority, costly, and not fitting the broader military equipment strategy.
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