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Lithuania, a relatively new NATO member, fully endorses the concept of "collective defense." National policy recognizes the primacy of NATO as the guarantor of security in Europe. The goal of Lithuania's defense policy is to create a military that can contribute to international missions through the NATO alliance, the UN, and other groups, and to continue to integrate Lithuania into Western defense structures. The defense ministry is responsible for combat forces, search and rescue operations, and intelligence. The government has committed to achieving the goal of dedicating 2% of GDP for defense spending. Lithuania maintains 8,500 active duty troops and 8,000 reserve troops. The core of the Lithuanian force structure is the Iron Wolf Rapid Reaction Brigade, which consists of five battalions and appropriate support elements. The Lithuanian Air Force operates 17 fixed wing aircraft and nine helicopters. The Home Guard is currently organized into seven districts. Plans call for reorganization into five districts. The Border Police are under the Interior Ministry and are responsible for border protection, passport and customs duties, and interdiction of smuggling and trafficking activities. |
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