Lithuania Strengthens Army And Launches Annual Draft
- 3.12.2025, 8:17
Details of the program have become known.
Lithuania has announced sweeping changes to its defense system and is launching an annual draft, which will be a key element in building a reserve and strengthening the country's combat readiness.
The reports the press service of the Lithuanian Armed Forces.
Lithuania introduces compulsory basic service
From January 2 to December 31, 2026, Lithuania will have an updated format of compulsory basic military service.
The plan is to draft about five thousand citizens, and the draft itself will stretch over the next year.
The authorities emphasize that such a model is designed to strengthen the state's defense capabilities in the context of changing regional security.
Colonel Danas Motskunas, commenting on the decision, said that the 2026 draft is seen as a "purposeful step to strengthen the national defense system."
At the same time, he pointed out that a wide range of programs allows the army to cover different personnel needs, and young people to choose the format that better suits their educational and professional plans.
Service Formats and Distribution of Recruits
The enlistment structure involves several service options:
3870 will be sent for a nine-month compulsory initial service.
90 specialists from in-demand fields will be recruited for 3-month training.
650 citizens will undergo 160-200 days of training under junior officer training programs: 340 - in army units, 310 - at the Military Academy.
450 young people will be able to choose 90-120-day programs that form a basic military specialty and are designed for further training for three years.
Conditions for students and graduates
The military emphasize that the draft is organized taking into account the schedules of educational institutions. High school graduates will be able to enlist immediately after receiving their diplomas, while students will be offered more flexible and shorter programs that allow them to combine their studies with military training.