Lithuanian military receives German submachine guns for EUR 1.3 mln

VILNIUS – Submachine guns made by Germany's Heckler & Koch GmbH have been delivered to the Lithuanian Armed Forces for 1.3 million euros, the Defense Ministry said Thursday.

The MP7 A2s were chosen for their tactical advantages, including their weight, rapid firing capability, and armor-piercing power, it said, noting that these guns are also used by armed forces in 24 NATO countries.

This marks the first time the Lithuanian military will use such submachine guns, according to the ministry.

The MP7 A2 is more compact than the larger-caliber submachine guns currently in use, it noted. 

"This will greatly facilitate coordination within the team during operations in confined spaces. With its reduced bullet caliber but increased powder charge, the MP7 A2 has better penetration power and faster firing, and meets rapid-fire requirements," the ministry said.

The 4.6x30 mm ammunition of these submachine guns can penetrate ballistic protection, unlike the 9x19 mm ammunition.