Lithuania has bolstered its ground combat capabilities with the arrival of the Spike LR2 missile system from Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, under a 6-million-euro ($6.9 million) contract. The procurement further enhances the Baltic nation’s ability to counter advanced armored threats.
The newly delivered missiles will be mounted on Lithuania’s Vilkas infantry fighting vehicles, a Boxer-type platform. Each vehicle integrates the Samson Mk II remote weapon station, which combines a 30mm autocannon, 7.62mm machine gun, and the Spike launcher, providing soldiers with layered offensive and defensive options.
Prior to delivery, the Spike LR2 underwent live-fire testing in May, with oversight from the Lithuanian Armed Forces, OCCAR, and vehicle producer ARTEC GmbH. These trials validated the weapon’s integration and effectiveness against high-value targets.
The Spike LR2 is a fifth-generation precision-guided missile, designed for multi-purpose operations. It introduces artificial intelligence-based tracking, longer reach, and superior lethality compared to the earlier Spike LR. Capable of hitting targets up to 5.5 km from the ground and 10 km from aerial platforms, the 1.2-meter, 13-kilogram missile employs a tandem HEAT warhead to neutralize modern armored vehicles and fortified urban defenses.
