Lithuanian Armed Forces complete Reserve Soldier 2026 training

The Lithuanian Armed Forces have concluded the ‘Reserve Soldier 2026’ training exercises, which tested a new and improved, accelerated training program designed to enhance national defense readiness. More than 800 active reserve personnel from various regions of Lithuania participated in the two-stage exercise.

The training focused on updating basic individual skills, including weapon handling, marksmanship, tactics, military topography, communication procedures, tactical medicine, and protection against drone threats. Additionally, the exercises included training for military specialties and collective skills for operating within squads and sections.

Major General Žilvinas Gaubys, head of the Training and Doctrine Command, noted that the training serves as a continuous process to maintain and deepen skills acquired during mandatory service. The exercises concluded with field tactical evaluations to assess both individual soldier performance and the ability of unit leaders to plan and command operations. These drills are part of the broader ‘Perkūno Griausmas 2026’ series, which tests the readiness of military and state institutions.