Lithuania Thales GM200 MM/C Multifunction Radar: Lithuania has received its first Thales GM200 MM/C multifunction radar system as part of efforts to improve the country’s military defence capabilities. The new system will help the Lithuanian Army find enemy artillery positions and detect small drones. It will also help military units respond faster when enemy forces open fire.
The delivery took place on October 30, 2026. The purchase is part of a defence agreement between Lithuania and the Netherlands. The deal also includes technical support and plans to improve the radar systems in the future.
New Radar to Improve Lithuania’s Artillery Capabilities
The Thales GM200 MM/C is mainly designed to find enemy artillery and other indirect-fire weapons. It can track the path of incoming artillery shells and use this information to work out where the enemy guns are located. This allows military forces to respond to enemy attacks more quickly.
The radar will become part of Lithuania’s national division and will work with other reconnaissance and fire-support equipment. It will help military commanders get better information about enemy movements and coordinate operations more effectively.
Another important feature is its ability to detect First-Person View (FPV) drones. These small drones are often used in modern wars to watch enemy positions and carry out attacks. Finding them earlier can help protect soldiers and military equipment.
Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas said the new system would improve the army’s ability to deal with these threats.
“The multifunction radar system significantly enhances the national division’s capabilities,” said Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas. “It helps detect both enemy artillery firing positions and FPV drones, thereby increasing the protection of our soldiers on the battlefield.”
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Radar Can Also Support Air Defence Operations
The GM200 MM/C isn’t limited to finding artillery positions. Depending on its configuration and the equipment used, it can also monitor airspace and become part of an air defence system.
The radar belongs to the Ground Master family developed by French defence company Thales. Its compact version is designed for military use where quick deployment and mobility are important.
Netherlands and Lithuanian Company to Support the Project
Lithuania’s radar purchase is part of its defence cooperation with the Netherlands. The agreement was signed in January 2024 and the project was valued at €126.7 million, reported Defence Industry Europe. The amount includes the radar systems and a support package.
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This package covers technical documents, training for radar operators and maintenance staff, spare parts, special tools and testing equipment. The first delivery was planned for 2026 and has now taken place.
Lithuania will continue working with the Dutch Ministry of Defence on maintenance and technical support. Both countries also plan to keep improving the systems so they remain ready for use and can meet future military needs.
Lithuanian company ELSIS TS is also taking part in the project as a subcontractor for Thales. The company will bring its experience in connecting different systems and will help increase the involvement of local businesses in defence projects.
