Baltic countries are exploring possible joint development of a mid-range air defense system as a result of regional tensions.

The possibility of a joint mid-range air defense system was announced late last month by the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense following a meeting by Lithuanian Minister of National Defense Juozas Olekas, Minister of Defense of Estonia Sven Mikser and Minister of Defense of Latvia Raimonds Vejonis.

"The ministers agreed to consult with such strategic allies as the United States of America or Poland and have draft plans for the possible development of mid-range air defense system produced by this autumn," the ministry said.

"Regional defense cooperation of the Baltic States is more critical than ever, our security assurance is our solidarity," said the Lithuanian minister. "The ministers also agreed to enhance cooperation with Poland, Baltic States' neighbor and ally in NATO, for assuring a unanimous response to possible threats."

Baltic countries, once part of the now-defunct Soviet Union, have been increasing defense cooperation among themselves and with other NATO countries as a result of Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine and continued political and military machinations in Eastern Ukraine.