Video report (author Private First Class Eugenijus Naikelis)
Since early morning of 2nd May, Rapid Reaction Forces started action in Marijampolė and Vilkaviškis together with representatives from cities municipalities and police officers. They also had to solve the resulting situation: according to the scenario of the exercises ‘Lightning Strike 2017', unidentified groups occupied major cities objects and disrupt urban activities, as well as pose a serious threat to people's safety.
Under the scenario, Marijampolė and Vilkaviškis are declared as military territories, therefore both battalions of the Rapid Reaction Forces are enabled to perform military actions legally. Combat groups established checkpoints on the roads at the main entrances of the cities, where soldiers are constantly on duty.
Today, 3rd May, military incident at the entry of Marijampolė city, A16 road (near intersection of Gediminas and Vasara streets) is anticipated according to the playing scenario. Helicopter of the Air Forces will be invoked to assist transportation of injured soldiers. After finalizing military operation, helicopter will be landing in the territory of recreation base in Marijampolė.
One of the major Lithuanian Armed Forces national exercises this year ‘Lightning Strike 2017' are taking place from 28th April until 7th May. There are trainings of Peacetime Operation Forces and Rapid Reaction Forces with their supporting units in the case of hybrid threats. Exercises also aims that national forces would be ready for unconventional challenges and act independently for some time, until allied support would reach the country.
More about the exercises: http://bit.ly/2oiahfG
Photos: http://bit.ly/2pvuzS1
Rapid Reaction Forces
Since 1st November, 2014 Lithuanian military Rapid Reaction Forces are ready to respond any type of threat for the national security. These forces are composed of two battalion size battle groups, formed of Lithuanian Grand Duke Algirdas Mechanised Infantry Battalion and Grand Duchess Birutė uhlan Battalion as well as Air and Special forces, Military Police, artillery, logistical and medical support units. Rapid Reaction Forces are prepared to operate within 2 hours after receiving the order.
Information for media
Media representatives who are willing to prepare material about the exercises are invited to register to public relations officer Captain Tomas Pakalniškis (email: prt14pio@gmail.com, tel.: +370 657 61271).
Photos by Master Sergeant Lina Ambroževičiūtė and Senior Sergeant Romas Eidukevičius.
