Video report (author Private First Class Eugenijus Naikelis)
4th May, the head of Lithuanian Armed Forces organized national exercises ‘Lightning Strike 2017' Major General Vitalijus Vaikšnoras visited and met soldiers serving in the areas of the exercises, declared to be military territories in Marijampolė and Vilkaviškis, and was also introduced to the nearest planned operations.
‘During the course of the exercises ‘Lightning Strike 2017', government and residents of Marijampolė and Vilkaviškis enabled Lithuanian soldiers to operate in real location enhancing their skills and abilities, quickly and efficiently react to the challenges. Therefore, it is of high importance to gain more versatile experience from these exercises', - emphasized Major General V. Vaikšnoras, who met troops from Rapid Reaction Forces and battalion commanders of these forces.
Also, Major General V. Vaikšnoras met with representatives from municipalities of Marijampolė and Vilkaviškis, and officers of the Ministry of Interior, who discussed the progress of the exercise.
Major General V. Vaikšnoras directly commands for the exercises from the headquarters, established in Vilnius.
One of the major Lithuanian Armed Forces national exercises this year ‘Lightning Strike 2017' are taking place from 28th April until 7th May. There are trainings of Peacetime Operation Forces and Rapid Reaction Forces with their supporting units in the case of hybrid threats. Exercises also aims that national forces would be ready for unconventional challenges and act independently for some time, until allied support would reach the country.
More about the exercises: http://bit.ly/2oiahfG
Rapid Reaction Forces
Since 1st November, 2014 Lithuanian military Rapid Reaction Forces are ready to respond any type of threat for the national security. These forces are composed of two battalion size battle groups, formed of Lithuanian Grand Duke Algirdas Mechanised Infantry Battalion and Grand Duchess Birutė uhlan Battalion as well as Air and Special forces, Military Police, artillery, logistical and medical support units. Rapid reaction Forces are prepared to operate within 2 hours after receiving the order.
Information for media
Media representatives who are willing to prepare material about the exercises are invited to register to public relations officer Captain Tomas Pakalniškis (email: prt14pio@gmail.com, tel.: +370 657 61271).
Photos by Master Sergeant Lina Ambroževičiūtė
