Lithuania needs layered air defense against evolving drone threats

Defense technology expert Professor Andrius Vilkauskas of Kaunas University of Technology argues that Lithuania requires a layered air defense model to address evolving drone threats. He notes that the war in Ukraine is blurring the technological line between small drones and cruise missiles, as jet-powered unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) become faster and capable of carrying payloads between 200 and 500 kilograms.

Vilkauskas emphasizes that relying solely on expensive missiles and fighter jets is inefficient. Instead, Lithuania needs an integrated system that includes early detection through a spectrum of radar, radio frequency, optical, thermal, and acoustic sensors. The system must utilize automated data analysis and artificial intelligence to rapidly identify an object's type, trajectory, and speed.

A key component of this strategy involves using cost-effective neutralization methods, such as interceptor drones, to counter low-cost threats rather than deploying high-value missiles against inexpensive targets.