23-10-2026

Lithuania strengthens its defence industry: Giraitės ginkluotės gamykla presented the first assembled automatic rifles

The state-owned company Giraitės ginkluotės gamykla AB (AB GGG) has presented its first assembled automatic rifles. Having previously focused exclusively on ammunition production, the company is embarking on a new line of business: it will develop capabilities for the assembly and maintenance of rifles, with the long-term goal of manufacturing their components as well.

"Investments in defence must strengthen military security and create long-term economic value. We aim to increase the pool of technological expertise, specialists, and production capacities relevant to the defence industry within Lithuania. This would help strengthen the resilience of the State," Minister of Finance Taurimas Valys stated during the presentation of automatic rifles by AB GGG.

In the initial stage, AB GGG will focus primarily on staff training, infrastructure preparation, and the testing of assembled rifles. Subsequently, the plan includes developing industrial assembly capabilities, further staff training, and expertise in weapons repair, tailored to the needs of Lithuania’s defence and security institutions.

The company’s long-term goal is to begin manufacturing rifle components in Lithuania and to establish a national competence centre for weapons.

The project is being implemented in cooperation with the international arms manufacturer EMTAN, which has nearly 50 years of experience. Its products are used in 50 countries. Through this partnership, AB GGG aims to acquire technological expertise, train specialists, and develop manufacturing operations in Lithuania.

For more than two decades, AB GGG has been producing ammunition for Lithuania's defence needs. In recent years, the company has invested in bullet-making and other technological equipment, as well as introduced a new anti-drone cartridge for use with standard NATO weapons. These investments helped to increase production efficiency and expand the range of products produced.

The company's products are exported to more than 30 countries. AB GGG also participates in international defence industry development initiatives. The company's strategic goal is to expand production capacity, attract foreign investment, diversify production and ensure reliable supply.

The shareholder of AB GGG is the State of Lithuania, and it owns 100% of the company's shares. The rights and obligations of the shareholder are exercised by the Ministry of Finance, which today acts as the main financial and strategic partner of the defence industry.