Lithuania trains 3,500 reserve military and riflemen in one year

Lithuania has trained around 3,500 reserve military personnel and volunteer riflemen over the past year as part of efforts to strengthen its total defence system, the Ministry of National Defence (KAM) announced on Saturday.

According to the ministry, since the establishment of the War Commissariat Board over a year ago, the country has developed a functional war commissariat structure. Municipalities have appointed full-time commissars, formed their staffs, and signed cooperation agreements with local governments. The first reserve units, known as commissariat units, have also begun taking shape.

Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas stated that citizens are joining the commissariats voluntarily, calling it “a sign of civic responsibility.” He noted that in just one year, approximately 1,500 reserve military personnel and 2,000 volunteer riflemen have completed training. “A consistent, clear, and effective training system has been created, covering both basic and advanced courses,” Kaunas said. The Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union is forming riflemen units up to battalion level and integrating them into joint military exercises.

This year, the ministry plans to invite another 1,500 citizens for initial training while continuing refresher courses for those who have already completed basic preparation. To encourage broader participation, all municipalities now offer equal opportunities for joining, and health check procedures have been simplified—residents can complete them at their local healthcare providers without requiring a military medical commission.

Colonel Danas Mockūnas, head of the War Commissariat Board, emphasised that those joining the ranks are making a “value-based choice” to take responsibility for defending their homeland. “Every individual’s contribution is a vital part of our collective security,” he said.

War commissariats are military institutions operating at the municipal and regional levels, ensuring cooperation between civilians and the armed forces while maintaining state functions during crises or wartime. Their role includes strengthening security, coordinating military and local government interactions, and organising rear-area operations.