Albania is set to boost its military firepower and domestic arms production through a new deal with Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems.
Under the agreement, Elbit will supply the NATO member with 155mm truck-mounted ATMOS howitzers, 120mm SPEAR mortars, and two types of tactical drones, Magni-X and Thor.
The company will also be helping Albania establish its own production lines, according to a report by Haaretz.
It is part of Prime Minister Edi Rama’s push to modernize the country’s armed forces and develop a domestic defense industry.
The Magni-X is a compact quadcopter drone capable of carrying a payload of 1.5 kilograms (3.3 pounds) for up to an hour, even in areas with GPS disruptions.
The Thor drone, at 15 kilograms (33 pounds), can drop small munitions and operate for about 70 minutes without a heavy load.
Albania will receive 10 drones in the first stage of the agreement, after which Elbit will assist in setting up a production facility in the country’s north.
Other Countries Supplying Arms to Albania
Additional nations have assisted in bolstering Albania’s military capabilities.
In recent years, the US has provided armored vehicles, small arms, and military training, alongside financial and advisory support to help Tirana meet NATO standards.
European partners have also contributed.
Italy has supplied patrol boats and naval equipment, while Germany has delivered communication systems and other logistical support.
Turkey has also reportedly supplied drones and helped train Albanian forces in mechanized infantry operations.
