Lithuania strengthens naval capabilities with new Damen-built tug H-24 "Lokys"
The Lithuanian Navy has officially commissioned the new multi-purpose tugboat H-24 Lokys, marking a significant enhancement in the operational flexibility of its maritime forces. The vessel was inaugurated on May 12 in the Port of Klaipėda during a ceremony attended by defense and naval officials.
In brief
The Lithuanian Navy has taken delivery of the multipurpose tug H-24 Lokys, which was ceremonially inaugurated on 12 May in the port of Klaipėda. The tug H-24 Lokys was designed and built by the Dutch shipyard Damen, and the vessel is intended for towing, rescue and firefighting work, port security and support for the docking of larger allied NATO warships. The purchase forms part of the modernisation programme of the Lithuanian naval forces, and the name Lokys means bear.
Built by the renowned Dutch shipbuilder Damen, Lokys is designed to carry out a broad range of missions, including towing operations, maritime rescue, firefighting, and port security. The tug will also play a key support role in docking and maneuvering larger NATO allied warships, bolstering Lithuania’s interoperability within the Alliance’s naval operations.
This acquisition is part of a broader modernization effort of Lithuania’s naval assets, aimed at improving readiness and resilience in the Baltic region. The name Lokys—Lithuanian for "bear"—symbolizes strength, reliability, and readiness to respond across a spectrum of maritime scenarios.
The new vessel not only strengthens national defense infrastructure but also enhances the strategic posture of NATO forces in the northeastern flank.
Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier
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