Landowners notified of property acquisition for Kapčiamiesčio military training ground

Lithuania’s Ministry of National Defence has begun formal procedures to acquire land for the planned Kapčiamiesčio military training ground, notifying 643 property owners in Lazdijai district, state news agency BNS reported on Tuesday.

Deputy Defence Minister Bronius Bieliauskas stated that most residents recognise the need for a stronger military presence, adding that authorities had sought compromises with local communities from the outset. “It is important to ensure the establishment process runs smoothly, transparently, and on schedule,” he said.

The notifications follow parliamentary approval in late April for the training ground’s creation. Of the 643 notices prepared, 584 have been sent directly, while overseas residents will be contacted via Lithuanian embassies. Heirs to deceased owners will receive information through the Chamber of Notaries.

Over 80% of the affected private plots are forested, with agricultural land comprising less than 15% and homesteads under 5%. Owners of residential buildings within the training area may retain their properties or opt to sell them to the state within a decade, receiving market-value compensation plus an additional €25,366 to offset disruptions and aid relocation. Five homesteads in the border-adjacent buffer zone qualify for the same terms.

Compensation rates are set at €51,885 for residential structures and €5,765 for forests, farmland, and commercial buildings. Exceptions apply to properties acquired after 10 February this year, unless inherited or tied to pre-existing development permits.

The acquisition process will proceed in stages, beginning with formal registration via the Centre of Registers. Independent appraisers, funded by the ministry, will assess all affected assets—including land, buildings, crops, and investments—using standard valuation methods. Training exercises are slated to begin in 2028, with firing ranges operational by 2030.