Lithuania Plans Bigger NATO Air Base
Up to 750 allied personnel could be accommodated at Šiauliai as NATO strengthens air defences across the Baltic states.
Lithuania’s Ministry of National Defence announced the capacity target on 26 October 2026. Expanding the base in northern Lithuania would provide infrastructure and logistical support for larger contingents serving on rotation.
Šiauliai has hosted allied fighter aircraft since Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia joined NATO in 2004. It forms part of the alliance’s defence network along its eastern flank.
During 2026, NATO broadened its Baltic air policing mission into an air defence operation. Fighter aircraft now form part of a wider approach incorporating systems to counter drones and missiles. The reinforcement follows Russia’s war against Ukraine and violations of allied airspace.
Civilian jobs and services
Lithuanian Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas said infrastructure is essential to receiving allied forces and keeping them operational.
The ministry estimates that a 500-person contingent could generate €65.5 million in annual economic activity, compared with €24.6 million for a 200-person contingent.
Those projections cover the economic impact of the military presence. Accommodation, catering, fuel and transport would bring business to Lithuanian suppliers and create demand for civilian workers.
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