BAKU, Azerbaijan, August 23. This autumn,
Lithuania’s Ministry of National Defence (KAM) will submit a
package of legislative amendments to parliament aimed at
strengthening the country’s security and defense, Trend reports.
The initiatives encompass the enhancement of military
infrastructure, the augmentation of the defense sector, and the
revision of national security frameworks.
One of the pivotal undertakings involves the modification of the
Defense and Security Industry Statute. The modifications would
confer unique dispensations for enterprises within the sector,
facilitating the advancement and implementation of cutting-edge
technologies while expediting industrial expansion. Complementary
statutory frameworks will streamline operational protocols across
interconnected domains, including infrastructure development,
spatial planning, and telecommunication strategies.
Another major proposal is the establishment of a new military
training ground. Current facilities are no longer sufficient for
the Lithuanian Armed Forces and NATO allies, as modernization, new
units, and the permanent stationing of allied troops increase
training needs. The new site would allow exercises for
brigade-sized units and support the development of Lithuania’s
national division by 2030.
Responding to a shifting geopolitical environment and growing
hybrid threats, the government also intends to update the National
Security Strategy and the Defence System Development Programme.
Priorities include building infrastructure for Germany’s brigade in
Lithuania, expanding personnel numbers, strengthening public
resilience, and adjusting to new methods of warfare.
Other proposed measures include:
Air defense: more flexible rules for the use of
force against airspace violations, with faster response and
improved monitoring.
Polygraph law changes: expanded use of lie
detector tests for those with access to classified information,
simplifying procedures while strengthening information
security.
Intelligence law reform: granting security
services more operational powers in urgent situations without court
approval, updating information-sharing rules, and enhancing social
guarantees for officers.
State secrets law amendments: extending rules
to cover the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union and updating procedures
for handling classified information.
Conscription law changes: simplifying
administration and reducing employers’ burden for rehiring
conscripts after service.
Riflemen’s Union reform: strengthening its
integration into the national defense system by ensuring its armed
resistance units automatically fall under the armed forces in case
of conflict.
The ministry argues that the package is essential to ensure
Lithuania can respond effectively to threats, modernize its armed
forces, and safeguard national security in an increasingly unstable
environment.
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