The first army was officially created in Lithuania to unite all regular troops of the country. This was reported by the Lithuanian Defense Ministry on January 28. The ceremony took place in the city of Rukhula, which in the central part of the country, with the participation of state leadership and the Armed Forces.
This step marks a new stage in the development of Lithuania's defense capability. The first division of the Lithuanian army was created 250 years after the first permanent division was founded in 1775. The newly created division will include:
- The Iron Wolf, Zhemaythy and Reserve "Aucade";
- Air defense units;
- Engineering and technical support;
- Intelligence and artillery units.
The division commander was appointed brigade General Aurelius Alaskas. The new headquarters will start combat training this year, and the achievement of full combat capability is planned by 2030.
"We strengthen our opportunities to restrain and protect against the enemy. This step is only the beginning. We will continue to develop the Lithuanian army to guarantee the safety of our country and citizens," said Lithuanian Armed Forces Commander General Raimundas Vaikshnoras.
According to representatives of the Ministry of Defense, the creation of a national division will allow Lithuania to interact more effectively with other NATO divisions, providing maneuverability, fire support, logistics, intelligence and other functions necessary for the modern army.
