On April 20 Chief of the Defence Staff of the Lithuanian Armed Forces Rear Admiral Giedrius Premeneckas took part in a discussion of operational level chiefs of staff and CHOD deputies themes “Key Challenges in Implementing a Defence Policy” in Tartu, Estonia. They focussed significantly on practical aspects of implementing national defence strategy in each of the Baltic states and the arising regional challenges.
RADM Giedrius Premeneckas underscored the importance of regional cooperation saying that “priorities of the three Baltic states were really akin but still slightly differ sometimes due to national peculiarities. That needs to be resolved through an unceasing dialogue for the sake of effective cooperation.”
The discussion organized by the Baltic Defence College underlined that each of the Baltic militaries were essential in implementing the country’s national defence strategy. Responses to the similar threats faced by all the Baltic states differ depending on resources, national requirements and priorities.
Among the key areas discussed, enhancement of the long and medium-range air defence systems and uncrewed aerial systems (drones) capability development were noted. Other accents were put on increasing the active reserve and accelerated development of defence technology. Strengthening of infrastructure and logistics also remains among the most viral areas, just as readiness for Host Nation Support, including supporting the station of the German Brigade in Lithuania.
In the meanwhile, Lithuania consistently develops the Lithuanian Armed Forces 1st Division, carries on with the Armed Forces upgrade and steps up air defence capabilities. The processes are tightly purpose-bound to ensure the country’s individual defensive capability and effective interoperability with NATO Allies.
Other topics discussed at the meeting were the trilateral cooperation projects of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia that develops joint capabilities, ensures information exchange and strengthens mutual interaction. Such initiatives help respond to regional security challenges more effectively and ensure a closer Baltic military cooperation.
Photo and info credits: the Defence Staff.
