Like Kosovo, Albania has strengthened its defensive capabilities ahead of the New Year by receiving Javelin anti-tank missile systems from the United States, as part of military assistance to the Albanian Armed Forces.
Albania’s Minister of Defense, Pirro Vengu, said the support enhances deterrence, interoperability with NATO, and national security.
In a video statement, Vengu confirmed that the delivery of an initial batch of Javelin systems has already been completed, noting that the assistance also includes Kosovo as part of bilateral cooperation with the United States.
“The delivery of an initial batch of Javelin systems has just been completed, and both Albania and Kosovo are part of this assistance and cooperation with the U.S., including the first anti-tank missiles launched from these systems,” the minister said.
According to Vengu, the importance of this development lies in three main aspects.
First, he said, it fulfills a long-standing request of the Armed Forces, which has now been realized.
Second, the cooperation confirms the key role of the United States in strengthening Albania’s defense capabilities.
Third, Vengu emphasized the importance of training military personnel to operate modern systems and technologies.
“These are anti-tank systems that can also be used to neutralize threats at short ranges, and they carry triple significance for the security and professionalism of our forces,” Vengu added.
The defense minister did not disclose the number of launchers received, but confirmed that another delivery is expected in 2026.
