Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union to restructure into battalions for better integration with armed forces

The Lithuanian government has approved a Defence Ministry proposal to reorganise the Lithuanian Riflemen’s Union (LRSU) into battalion-sized units, enabling smoother coordination with the national armed forces in joint operations, LRT reports.

Under the changes, the volunteer defence organisation’s subunits will be consolidated into larger formations matching the army’s structure in size, command hierarchy, and operational capabilities. The move aims to ensure seamless integration of LRSU units—comprising both armed and unarmed resistance fighters—into military command frameworks during crises.

Defence Ministry representative Robertas Kaunas stated that the restructuring reflects the LRSU’s growing role in Lithuania’s total defence system. “As the organisation expands, with more citizens joining armed and unarmed resistance efforts, it is critical that all components of the national defence system operate precisely, efficiently, and in full synchronisation when executing shared tasks,” he said.

The reform aligns with the military’s established wartime command structure, where regional defence commanders will oversee battalions partially composed of LRSU’s armed resistance riflemen. The union will form and train these battalions in advance, ensuring they are fully prepared for potential deployment under military command.

Battalions will incorporate not only LRSU’s armed resistance units but also other subunits assigned defence roles under Lithuania’s wartime plans. The government additionally authorised the LRSU to establish aviation squadrons—officially termed *eskadrilės*—to standardise terminology with the military and clarify the distinction between ground (platoon-level) and air units.

According to the ministry, the squadrons will enhance intelligence, logistics, and early-warning capabilities by leveraging civilian aviation professionals and their equipment for state defence and peacetime rescue operations. The LRSU currently counts over 19,000 members.