Finnish defence and aviation technology group Patria is looking to include Lithuania in its armoured vehicle production programme, according to business news portal Verslo žinios.
The company's president, Panu Routila, told the portal that several Lithuanian firms had already been identified as potential suppliers and partners.
"I believe there are companies here that could complement our operations very well, both in production and maintenance, as well as in the development of new technologies," he said in an article published on Wednesday.
However, Routila indicated that broader cooperation would likely depend on Lithuania placing an order.
"Some companies can become partners in our supply chain without a specific order, but we would also welcome wider cooperation. Reciprocity is important — we want to see signals from the state in our direction," he said.
Seven countries currently participate in Patria's armoured vehicle programme in exchange for placing orders. President Gitanas Nausėda hinted last September at the possible acquisition of armoured SUVs from the company.
Patria signed two contracts with Germany in December worth more than €2bn under its CAVS armoured vehicle programme, covering the supply of up to 876 Patria 6x6 vehicles. The company has received orders for nearly 2,000 armoured vehicles in total and has already delivered more than 250.
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