December 13, 2001 -- Heidelberg recently collaborated with the U.S. National Imagery and Mapping Agency (NIMA) to install a state-of-the-art map printing operation in Kanus, Lithuania. The system for the Lithuanian Ministry of Defense, which includes a Speedmaster 102 5-color press, Delta RIP, Signastation, Topsetter 102 and a cutting system, successfully passed site testing and was turned over to the Lithuanian government on November 8.   In June 2000, NIMA agreed to assist the Ministry of Defense (MOD) of Lithuania to procure a "Digital Prepress Front End" (Computer to Plate) and a Large Format Five Color Printing Press. This equipment is state-of-the-art and allows Lithuania to rapidly print NATO Standard Mapping, Charting and Geodesy (MC&G) products in support of the ministry's national security objectives.   This system was procured as part of a larger security assistance package. All facets of the printing operation were considered, from training and site preparation, to installation and integration, as well as maintenance of the equipment and the provision of consumable supplies for two years. Operator and maintenance training, technical assistance, initial and follow-on support to operations are included, as well as the provision of printing supplies, tools, test equipment, storage cabinets, cleaning kits, documentation and manuals, spares and repair parts for an extended period. Finally, data integration services, shipping, packing and crating, handling and installation were included.    The contract to provide this support was awarded to the Heidelberg company, the prime contractor for the system installation. This approach minimized the risk of the having multiple vendors working to integrate and install a solution. Heidelberg USA and Heidelberg Baltic jointly managed the operation, allowing for a total " turn-key" system provided by Heidelberg to insure full functionality, a fully integrated computer to plate printing press system and insures the compatibility of all elements of the system. The printing operation is stage one of a three-stage process. Follow-on procurements will augment the existing system with capabilities to enhance the existing database with militarily significant information. These will enable the Ministry to more rapidly respond to national emergency situations with custom tailored MC&G products.   This procurement was funded through the U.S. Department of State's Foreign Military Financing Program. The center, with a staff of 30 persons, will publish maps for the Lithuanian Armed Forces as well as the Latvian and Estonian Armed Forces, if necessary.   An event commemorating this installation was held on November 8, with the U.S. and Lithuanian ambassadors taking part in a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The ceremony was an important event, demonstrating Heidelberg's ability to provide a seamless worldwide integration of operations in various Heidelberg locations.