Lithuanian Defense

On its public governmental website, Lithuania states that it is committed to protecting the sovereignty of its state. Lithuania aims to protect its economic interests and preserve its cultural heritage through its National Security Strategy. It has a proactive regime in response to international terrorism, as it believes that international terrorism no longer recognizes borders.

Aftermath of World War II

Following World War II, massive numbers of Lithuanians were deported from the country to Siberia by Russian forces. Lithuania experienced some of the highest losses during World War II and following the War. From 1944 to 1953, Lithuania experienced anything but freedom. During these years, Lithuania suffered from some of the bloodiest wars known to mankind. Lithuanians combined forces with Estonians and Latvians to resist the forces of the Soviet Union during this time period. Over 30,000 lives were lost during this resistance movement of Lithuania. Stalin continued to exert pressure on Baltic nations like Lithuania in an attempt to gain control over such countries. Until 1991, Lithuania was under the oppression of Russian forces.

This Guerilla War did not capture the media's interest as other wars, such as the Vietnam War, did. The Guerilla War can be divided into three separate parts. The first part of the war lasted from 1944 to 1946. During this part of the war, many Lithuanian lives were lost to Russian forces. The second part of the war lasted from 1946 to 1948, and the last part occurred until 1953. In the last phase of the war, the Lithuanian people received the most information that they had out of any of the previous years in regards to the war.

Modern Defence Policy of Lithuania

Today, Lithuania is a part of the NATO treaty and is also a part of the European Union (EU). Lithuania maintains an armed force that is known as the Lithuanian Armed Forces. It is comprised of over 14,500 members. The security policy is a proactive one, and it is intended to help Lithuania integrate into the Western military culture. The security policy provides for the total and unconditional defence of Lithuania.

In addition to the Lithuanian Armed Forces, Lithuania also maintains border guards under the Interior Ministry. There are over 4,800 guards who are employed under the Interior Ministry, and they seek to protect the borders of Lithuania. They provide for border protection and prevent illegal smuggling of products into the country.

Currently, there are several motorized vehicles that the Lithuanian Armed Forces depend on for its operations. These battalions make up the major technological developments to date of the military forces in Lithuania. The country also is currently working on modernizing its weaponry. There is also a Lithuanian Air Force and Lithuanian Navy that is in operation in the country. The Special Operations Force also operates under the command of the government. The Special Operations Force performs on direct actions as needed by the government and also provides additional support to the military.