Lithuania is ensuring a continuous supply of Bolide missiles, deployed by the RBS 70 NG launcher, with a 3-billion Swedish krona ($326 million) order from Saab.
The order for additional Bolide short-range air defense missiles was made within a broader framework agreement involving Saab, Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration, and Lithuania’s Ministry of Defence.
Deliveries are scheduled from 2028 to 2032.
“With this order, we continue our commitment to supporting the Lithuanian Armed Forces with our world-leading RBS 70 missiles. These form a key part of the nation’s air defence capability and contribute to keeping Lithuania’s airspace safe,” said Görgen Johansson, head of Saab’s Dynamics business area.
Short-Range Air Defense
Since 2004, the Lithuanian Armed Forces have been operating the RBS 70 short-range man-portable air defense system to engage hostile low-flying aircraft, cruise missiles, and drones.
The original RBS 70 system uses Mk 1 and Mk 2 missiles, while its advanced variant, the RBS 70 NG, fields the Bolide missile with improved speed, range, and lethality.
Vilnius recently acquired Bolide missiles under a $2.2-million contract in May 2025 and a similar missile package valued at $16 million in May 2024.
In December, the NATO country ordered a Mobile Short Range Air Defense (MSHORAD) system from Saab, which integrates the RBS 70 NG missile with the Giraffe 1X radar. It will be mounted onto JLTV 4×4 vehicles, providing a mobile shield against aerial threats.
Bolide Missile
The Bolide missile can reach Mach 2 and has an engagement range from a few hundred meters out to about 8 kilometers (5 miles).
It uses a laser beam‑riding guidance system that is highly resistant to jamming, giving it precise targeting capability against aerial threats.