Lithuania strengthens protection of strategic sites with focus on drone threats

Lithuania’s Public Security Service (VST) will prioritise countering threats from unmanned aerial vehicles as part of broader efforts to enhance the protection of strategic sites, LRT reports.

In response to potential Russian provocations, the VST is reviewing and improving both organisational and technical security measures. This includes closer cooperation with the Lithuanian military, site operators, and other responsible institutions, according to VST spokesperson Ingrida Stragienė.

“A significant focus is on protection against threats posed by unmanned aerial vehicles—implementing and refining detection, identification, and neutralisation systems,” Stragienė said.

Some measures may be more visible to the public, such as increased VST patrols near certain sites or more frequent joint operations with the military. Stragienė urged residents not to be alarmed by a greater security presence, as these are planned and routine steps to safeguard nationally important objects.

Earlier this week, the Ministry of the Interior warned that Russia may be planning malicious actions or provocations against sites in the Baltic states to escalate regional tensions. Interior Minister Vladislavas Kondratovičius stated that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and reinforcing preparedness.

Defence Minister Robertas Kaunas noted that protection will be strengthened for critical infrastructure, including bridges, power substations, gas supply systems, and communication nodes. The VST will ensure enhanced physical security, with support from the Lithuanian military if needed.