Ukraine conflict prompts precision strike and artillery shift in the Baltics
Rafael's Spike Firefly loitering munition could prove an attractive option for Baltic countries. (Image: Rafael)
The Baltic states are fine-tuning their pre-war defence procurement plans following lessons learned from the Russo-Ukrainian conflict, with a renewed focus on long-range and precision fire capabilities.
Following the invasion of Ukraine, the three Baltic states faced the need to bolster their defence capabilities on an expedited timeline, while simultaneously dealing with the worsening economic conditions of the post-pandemic environment. The situation has been further exacerbated by skyrocketing energy prices and the effects of anti-Russian sanctions.
In other words, the Baltic states need to field military capabilities with the maximum possible effect, while reducing procurement and operational costs.
To achieve this, defence ministries are focused on purchasing battle-proven systems with an extensive user base, and putting a stronger emphasis on joint procurement.
The top priorities identified by Latvian Defence Minister Artis
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![Ireland spells out $2.3 billion shopping list in five-year defence spending plan]()
Ireland spells out $2.3 billion shopping list in five-year defence spending plan
Ireland’s multi-annual investment in capital defence spending is set to rise from €300m in 2026 to €360m in 2029–2030 with major upgrades across land, air, maritime and cyber domains.
-
![Canada to deepen integration of multi-domain capabilities to strengthen its defences]()
Canada to deepen integration of multi-domain capabilities to strengthen its defences
The Canadian Department of National Defence has created new organisations to manage the procurement and integration of all-domain solutions and allocated US$258.33 million to strengthen production capacities.
-
![US National Security Strategy prioritises advanced military capabilities and national industry]()
US National Security Strategy prioritises advanced military capabilities and national industry
The 2025 NSS has emphasised investment in the US nuclear and air defence inventory and national industry, but it leaves multiple unanswered questions on how the White House will implement this approach.
-
![Canada set to look away from its neighbour and across the Atlantic for partners]()
Canada set to look away from its neighbour and across the Atlantic for partners
While non-EU UK struggles to join the Security Action for Europe initiative, which provides loans for defence programmes, Canada has become the first country outside Europe to get access – and did so for a nominal fee.
-
![NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems]()
NATO experiments with solutions to integrate networks, AI and uncrewed systems
During the latest edition of the NATO DiBaX, the alliance tested multiple capabilities to inform requirements for future efforts.
