Lithuanian defence companies are seeking greater government support to protect against suspected sabotage and threats. This comes after an attempted arson attack on a facility storing Starlink communications equipment in Vilnius.
What happened
The attempted arson took place overnight on a Sunday, with incendiary liquids and Molotov cocktails used in an attempt to start a fire. A security guard spotted the fire and extinguished it, with only a control unit damaged. Surveillance cameras recorded the incident, but no suspects have been detained.
The attack follows other incidents targeting Starlink infrastructure, including antennas being set on fire in Bulgaria and a Starlink station being targeted in Poland. Lithuanian authorities suspect that Russian intelligence services may have been behind an earlier incident involving a drone manufacturer.
Defence companies in Lithuania are facing growing security concerns, including cyberattacks, intimidation, and cars with Russian license plates parked outside their offices. Employees have also been photographed and subjected to psychological pressure. Companies are calling for more training and practical advice on how to respond to potential threats.
The National Crisis Management Centre has sent security guidelines to over 40 companies, but some businesses say they have not received sufficient guidance. Smaller companies face particular challenges in prioritizing cybersecurity and physical protection, and are calling for free or subsidized assistance to improve their defences.
The government is considering asking companies to respond more actively to security recommendations, but Interior Minister Martynas Katelynas warned that the state cannot provide physical protection to every business. Instead, the state will provide information and guidance to help companies protect themselves.
