Lithuania has proposed changes to military force regulations to give the armed forces more flexibility against drone threats, local media reported.
The draft would allow military action against unmanned aircraft in restricted zones with approval from the defense minister or a designated official.
For now, force is permitted only if an aircraft poses a direct threat to critical infrastructure.
If the proposal passes, it would be used only when necessary, with precautions to avoid harm, according to defense ministry sources quoted by Lithuanian National Radio and Television.
Drone Threats
The initiative comes after two recent incidents in which Russian-made Gerbera drones, including one carrying explosives, crossed into the Baltic nation’s territory, passing from Belarus, a close ally of Moscow.
Russia employs this type of drone as decoys in attacks on Ukraine to overwhelm and distract air defenses.
In response, Lithuania’s Transport and Communications Ministry closed part of the airspace along the Belarusian border until October this year, with the option to extend.
Raising Concerns
Amid rising security concerns over Russia’s war in Ukraine, the Baltic nation has boosted military readiness and increased defense spending.
Last month, Lithuanian officials stressed the urgent need for NATO to strengthen anti-drone and air defense capabilities along its eastern flank.
“Russian drones directed towards Ukraine and strayed off course, entering NATO territory and posing a threat to civilians and critical infrastructure,” stated Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kęstutis Budry.
“This is not just a matter of security for Lithuania or other allies on the front lines; it is a shared security challenge for the alliance as a whole,” added Budry.
Moreover, as the country’s capital Vilnius is located just 30 kilometers (20 miles) from Belarus, Lithuania unveiled an evacuation plan amid fears that Russia could target the city in a potential conflict.
