# European Officials Prioritize Drones and Heavy Armor

European officials are pursuing a dual-track defense market, combining investment in drones and counter-drone systems with continued procurement of tanks and armored vehicles. Lithuania plans to acquire six-wheel-drive Patria armored personnel carriers while seeking local assembly and research-and-development participation; its 2024 purchase of 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks requires the newest available anti-drone systems to be included during assembly. Poland is also considering a CH-47 Chinook purchase, while contractors may find opportunities in joint development with Ukrainian firms and local production in Lithuania and Poland.

- Companies with drone, counter-drone, armored-vehicle, or integration capabilities can assess opportunities tied to Lithuania’s local assembly and anti-drone requirements.
- Contractors can evaluate joint-development opportunities with Ukrainian firms and R&D or production participation in Lithuania and Poland.
- Boeing has identified the CH-47 Chinook as its offering for Poland’s prospective heavy-lift helicopter purchase; suppliers should distinguish this prospective opportunity from the 2024 Apache acquisition.

**Jurisdictions:** international
**Industries:** Defense & Military
**Published:** October 14, 2026

### Government Entities
- Ministry of National Defence of Lithuania
- Polish Armed Forces
- Ukrainian Army
- North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
- Ministry of Defence of the Netherlands

### Vendors
- Patria (Armored vehicle manufacturer and supplier)
- Boeing (Awardee for Poland's Apache purchase and prospective offeror of CH-47 Chinook aircraft)

### Key Quotes
> One of our intentions is not only to assemble, but also be involved in the R&D process.
> — Robertas Kaunas, Defense Minister of Lithuania

> The Chinook is our offering, it has proven itself throughout the world as a vertical lift, heavy lift helicopter.
> — Vince Logsdon, Vice President for International Business Development, Boeing Defense, Space & Security

### Sources
- [European officials weigh mix of high-tech drones and heavy armor](https://www.defensenews.com/global/europe/2026/10/14/european-officials-weigh-mix-of-high-tech-drones-and-heavy-armor) - Defense News