Lithuanian and German Electromagnetic Warfare units are training to operate German electromagnetic warfare sensors in the ongoing exercise Vigilant Owl 2026, which runs until December 4 across ten municipalities. The joint training event is focused on early warning of hostile action by means of electromagnetic spectrum reconnaissance.
“As Lithuania borders Belarus and Kaliningrad, we need to understand what is going on on the other side, especially in the electromagnetic spectrum. We have to be able to detect any shifts in real time, for example, the deployment of new radiolocation stations or air defence systems, and to catalogue them in a clear and constantly updated electromagnetic environment picture. This mission is centered precisely on that: to monitor, assess and understand what is on the other side,” said Vice Admiral Thomas Daum, Inspector of Germany's Cyber and Information Domain Service (CIR), when presenting the exercise.
During the training, military personnel of Electromagnetic Warfare units exchange their expertise, experience in equipment operation, and best practices of routine operations and specific tasks.
“The Lithuanian Armed Forces are consistently strengthening their Electromagnetic Warfare capabilities side by side with our NATO Allies, as this is an integral part of modern warfare operations. Training together with the Germans allows us to build better expertise in electromagnetic spectrum reconnaissance, to share practical experience, and to improve Allied interoperability. These skills are crucial for the timely detection of potential threats, reliable command and communications, thus strengthening the defence of Lithuania and NATO’s Eastern Flank,” said Colonel Vytautas Sriubas, Commander of the Lithuanian Armed Forces Cyber Defence Command.
The training event enhances the ability of the German Brigade stationed in Lithuania and the Lithuanian Armed Forces to detect potential threats in a timely manner, thus strengthening the security of the Eastern Flank.
Photo credits: Sgt Spc Karolis Kavolėlis
