Vilnius Airport. Photo: Shutterstock Amid growing security challenges in European airspace, Lithuania is expanding its investments in airport security, with a program that includes advanced technologies for detecting drones, central monitoring systems, and protecting aviation infrastructure from physical and cyber threats.
The Lithuanian Airports Authority (LTOU), which operates the international airports in Vilnius, Kaunas and Palanga, details its investments in three key areas: physical infrastructure security, passenger and baggage screening, and cyber protection.
The scope of investments detailed in the plan already exceeds €22.4 million, with preparations expected to continue through 2027
Since 2022, the Airports Authority has invested more than €8 million in strengthening physical security at the three airports.
As part of the investments, the warning and supervision systems for the port areas were upgraded, video surveillance systems were installed, and access control to restricted areas was improved.
In addition, basic capabilities for the remote identification and location of unmanned aerial vehicles were implemented, as part of preparations for threats that could affect the safety of takeoffs and landings.
The next stage is expected to be significantly advanced: In 2027, a new detection system based on three layers of identification is planned to be installed, which will allow for the identification of UAVs and other flying objects in the airspace near airports.
One of the key components of the plan is the integration of existing security systems into one central monitoring platform.
The platform, which is scheduled for completion by mid-2027, will allow security teams to obtain a broad picture of the security systems, identify threats earlier, and improve the speed of response to incidents.
The new system is not only designed to detect UAVs, but to improve coordination between protection, observation, and entry control systems at airports. Along with preparing for threats from the air, Lithuania is also investing in improving security screening systems, with €13.4 million invested in 2024–2025.