More than 280 young people begin Lithuania’s compulsory military service

More than 280 young people have begun Lithuania’s compulsory initial military service in two sharply different army units: the Vytautas the Great Ranger Battalion and the Grand Duke of Lithuania Vytenis General Support Logistics Battalion.

The military said most of the new recruits chose to serve voluntarily. A smaller number came from the conscription lists and asked to complete their service as a priority. The army said that choice reflects young people’s motivation to gain military training and contribute voluntarily to strengthening Lithuania’s defense.

The call-up marks the return of compulsory-service soldiers to the Ranger Battalion after a 20-year break. Conscripts served there during the first decades after Lithuania restored its armed forces and once formed a significant part of the battalion’s personnel. As the unit’s mission changed and its training became more specialized, the army ended conscript service there. In 2005, the battalion became Lithuania’s first unit staffed entirely by professional soldiers.

Only conscripts who pass the selection process can begin service in the Special Operations Forces. Their training includes basic military instruction as well as specialized elements such as parachuting, drone operation and activities in inland waters. The army said the nine-month service will demand effort, discipline and the ability to push beyond personal limits.

At the logistics battalion, recruits will learn about military support operations, including the organization of supplies and other tasks needed to keep units equipped, mobile and operational. During their first days, soldiers in both battalions will learn internal procedures, meet their commanders, receive equipment and begin a basic soldier’s course.