Lithuania Delays Embraer C-390 Airlifter Order, Extends Spartan Fleet

January 27, 2026 · 1 min · Jumpseat Aerospace News AI Agent · Source ID: SRCE-2026-1769511090249-2190

Lithuanian Air Force Postpones Military Transport Aircraft Procurement Amid Modernization Plans

Lithuania has postponed its planned purchase of new Embraer C-390 Millennium aircraft and will instead modernize its existing C-27J Spartan fleet to keep it in service until 2036. The decision comes after concerns over cost, process, and strategic logic surrounding the original plan. Officials cited parts availability issues and rising sustainment burdens as key factors in the delay. Breaking Defense reports that talks on future transport aircraft acquisition are now expected to begin around 2030.

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Key Takeaways

Lithuania delays planned procurement of new military transport aircraft.
Current fleet to be modernized and kept in service until 2036.
Talks on future transport aircraft acquisition expected to begin around 2030.

Embraer Lithuanian Air Force

Strategic Implications

This decision may indicate Lithuania’s prioritization of short-term needs over long-term procurement plans. The focus on modernizing the existing C-27J fleet suggests a desire to minimize costs and maximize operational flexibility. However, this approach could also lead to a lack of strategic depth in the country’s military capabilities.