Фото: Reform.by
Lithuania is launching its annual exercise to test the national mobilization system, “Vyčio skliautas 2026.” The exercise is being organized by the National Crisis Management Center and the Mobilization and Civil Resistance Department under the Ministry of National Defence.
The aim of the exercise is to assess the state’s readiness to act in a rapidly changing security environment. Both staff procedures and field operations will be practiced during the exercise.
“The exercise scenario is fictional, but it is based on current threats, events of recent years and the experience of other countries. It will simulate a gradual deterioration of the security situation, information and cyberattacks, disruptions to energy and communications supplies, disruptions to transport corridors, pressure on critical services, the need to evacuate the population, and chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear threats,” the Lithuanian government said in a statement.
On Saturday, Sept. 26, the evacuation of residents will be practiced. Practical activities will take place in 10 districts.
“An application for registering evacuated residents, exchanging information and coordinating with military commanders will be tested. The Lithuanian police will maintain public order, regulate traffic and monitor evacuation routes. The coordination of institutions will also be tested by separating civilian and military transport flows and organizing alternative routes.
Only volunteers who have registered in advance to participate in the exercise will take part in the evacuation. Other residents will not be evacuated,” the government said.
On Sept. 29, the public warning system will be tested. Sirens will be activated across the country, and residents of Lithuania will also receive alerts on their mobile phones.
On Oct. 3, a humanitarian camp will be set up at the Lazdijai hippodrome, where procedures for accommodation, registration, food provision, emergency and medical assistance, logistics, information and meeting the needs of vulnerable groups will be practiced.
The exercise will involve 14 ministries, 60 municipal administrations, as well as representatives of public and other organizations.