Military & Security

Military - note

The Lithuanian Armed Forces are tasked with safeguarding the nation's interests, sovereignty, and territory, as well as fulfilling Lithuania's obligations to NATO and ensuring European security, and participating in UN international peacekeeping initiatives. The primary security concern for Lithuania is Russia, a focus that has intensified following Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and the subsequent large-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Lithuania has been a NATO member since 2004 and relies on the Alliance as its security guarantor. The country is actively involved in both NATO and EU security frameworks, as well as in bilateral collaborations with allies such as the other Baltic States, Germany, Poland, the UK, Ukraine, and the US. The Lithuanian military has taken part in NATO and EU missions abroad and consistently engages in training and exercises alongside NATO and EU partner forces. Lithuania hosts NATO troops, is a participant in the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force, and contributes personnel to a multinational brigade in collaboration with Poland and Ukraine. The nation partook in its inaugural UN peacekeeping mission in 1994.

Since 2017, Lithuania has been hosting a German-led multinational NATO ground force battlegroup as part of the Alliance’s Enhanced Forward Presence initiative. Since 2004, NATO has also offered air defense for Lithuania through its Baltic Air Policing mission, with NATO fighter jets stationed at Lithuania’s Šiauliai Air Base (2025).

Military deployments

note: contributes approximately 350-550 troops to the joint military brigade of Lithuania, Poland, and Ukraine (LITPOLUKRBRIG), which was formed in 2014. The brigade is based in Poland and is composed of an international staff, three battalions, and specialized units. The units associated with the multinational brigade remain integrated within the armed forces of their respective nations until the brigade is activated for an international operation.

Military expenditures

Military and security forces

Lithuanian Armed Forces (Lietuvos Ginkluotosios Pajegos): Lithuanian Land Forces (LLF), Lithuanian Navy, Lithuanian Air Force (LTAF), Lithuanian Special Operations Forces (LITHSOF); National Defense Volunteer Forces (2025).

Military service age and obligation

The age requirement for conscripted military service for men is 19-26 years, with a 9-month service commitment; voluntary service for both men and women is available for ages 18-38, and the National Defense Volunteer Services accept individuals aged 18-60 (2025).

Military equipment inventories and acquisitions

The military's arsenal consists primarily of a combination of European and US weaponry (2025).

Military and security service personnel strengths

Approximately 20,000 active-duty military personnel are present (2025).