The project for acquiring Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTV) for the Lithuanian army began in 2019 when the Ministry of National Defence signed a purchase agreement with the U.S. government. In the first phase, 200 vehicles were delivered, followed by another 300 in the second phase, all manufactured by Oshkosh Defense, a major player in the U.S. defense industry. This delivery marks a significant milestone in strengthening the Lithuanian military, contributing to national defense capabilities and deterrence strategies.

According to Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas, the completion of this important phase significantly enhances the development of Lithuania's national division and deters potential threats. The JLTV vehicles, known for their high crew protection levels and mobility, are designed for reconnaissance, fire support, and command operations. Furthermore, he emphasized the continued priority of air defense, as some of these vehicles will be integrated with short-range air defense systems like RBS70 NG, highlighting the importance of modernizing Lithuania's military capabilities to meet contemporary security challenges.

U.S. Ambassador to Lithuania, Kara C. McDonald, expressed that receiving the latest batch of JLTVs strengthens the defense cooperation between the United States and Lithuania. This partnership is crucial for ensuring regional security and stability amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions, demonstrating the U.S. commitment to supporting its allies in the Baltic region.