Albania has received the first delivery of the US-made Javelin anti-tank missile system, marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s defense capabilities and advancing the modernization of its armed forces.
Albanian Minister of Defense Pirro Vengu said the acquisition represents an important milestone in enhancing Albania’s military readiness and fulfilling its long-term modernization objectives.
“The arrival of the Javelin systems, made possible through cooperation with our strategic ally, the United States, strengthens the defensive capabilities of the Albanian Armed Forces, increases deterrence, enhances interoperability with NATO, and reinforces national security,” Vengu said.
He added that a second shipment is expected to arrive in Albania in 2026.
As a NATO member, Albania ordered the Javelin systems as part of its military cooperation programs with the United States, through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) mechanism.
“This investment is part of a long-term strategy to modernize the Armed Forces, increase deterrence, and fully align with NATO capabilities and doctrine,” the Ministry of Defense said in a statement.
According to the ministry, the Javelin system is latest-generation US-produced technology and is considered a key asset for ground defense operations.
Meanwhile, Kosovo has also ordered 200 Javelin systems, a purchase expected to cost $75 million, as the country continues the transformation of the Kosovo Security Force (FSK) into a regular army.
In addition to the Javelin systems, Kosovo has ordered or already received drones, armored vehicles, and other military equipment from the United States and other partner countries.
