The Lithuanian Defence and Security Industry Awards 2024 celebrated not only outstanding achievements but also the remarkable growth of Lithuania's defense industry. Here are the key highlights from the event:

• Award Ceremony and Exhibition: The event showcased the products of 26 Lithuanian companies, emphasizing the importance of innovation and collaboration. A cooperation agreement was signed between the Lithuanian Defence and Security Industry Association (LDSIA) and the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union.

• Keynote from Vaidas Sabaliauskas: The LDSIA Director highlighted the rapid progress of Lithuania’s defense industry, recognized both nationally and internationally, including in Ukraine and allied armed forces. He emphasized the importance of public-private partnerships and innovation for enhancing Lithuania’s defense capabilities and export potential.

• Award Winners:

  • Company of the Year: NT Service for its advanced drone jamming systems used by NATO and its support for Ukraine.
  • More Than Business Award: RSI Europe for its FPV drones and remote detonation systems, alongside civic contributions.
  • Product of the Year: Hornet XR reconnaissance drone by Granta Autonomy, actively used in Ukraine.
  • Export Leader: AB Giraitės ginkluotės gamykla / GGG, the largest ammunition manufacturer in the Baltics.
  • Innovator of the Year: Unmanned Defense Systems, recognized for cutting-edge drone technology.
  • Discovery of the Year: AB Vakarų laivų gamykla for its contribution during its first year as an LDSIA member.
  • Service Provider of the Year: VILNIUS TECH for innovative structural solutions in military training areas.
  • IT Company of the Year: Hnit-Baltic, for its criminal intelligence optimization software.
  • Infrastructure Solution of the Year: KTD Group, for a road project using advanced concrete solutions.
  • Recognition Award: Broswarm, a startup developing advanced mine detection technology.
  • Defense Leader of the Year: Outgoing Minister of National Defence, Laurynas Kasčiūnas, for shaping Lithuania's defense policy.
  • State Institution of the Year: Lithuanian Army Warfare Institute for sustainable partnerships with the business community.

• Special Recognition: Police Commissioner General Arunas Paulauskas awarded Safariland for producing a life-saving bulletproof vest.

• Panel Discussion: Experts explored strategies for enhancing national security, featuring prominent leaders such as the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union Commander and newly appointed ministers of defense and economics.

The awards were attended by around 200 distinguished guests, including officials from the Presidency, Seimas, Government, and defense sector leaders. The event is organized annually by LDSIA, which has grown its membership significantly, from 60 to 106 members in the past year.

The celebration underscored the importance of collaboration and innovation in strengthening Lithuania’s defense and security industry.

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