Minister of National Defence Laurynas Kasčiūnas departs for Bahrain to carry out discussions on the terms of Lithuania’s contribution to U.S.-led multinational maritime security operations in the Middle East with the leaders of the Defence Ministry and the military of the country. Minister will also pay a visit to the Naval Support Activity Bahrain, base of the United States Fifth Fleet based in Bahrein and meet with Vice Admiral George M. Wikoff, Commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Central Command/Commander, Fifth Fleet/Commander, Combined Maritime Forces.
“The aim of my visit is to reach the agreements necessary for establishing the status of the Lithuanian military with the Ministry of Defence of Bahrain which is needed to be able to contribute troops to the U.S.-led maritime security operations in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Aden, the Arabian and Red Sea. The United States is a strategic partner so it is important that we send troops in response to the U.S. invitation to contribute to the maritime security efforts in the region. This is one of Lithuania’s long-term aims,” said Minister L. Kasčiūnas before leaving. Lithuania demonstrates solidarity with the U.S. and other Allies and is looking to join the international effort in support of security and safe navigation in the region of global strategic political and economic importance.
The goal of the Combined Maritime Forces based in Bahrain and led by the United States is to support the rules-based international order against illicit activities of non-state actors in international waters and to maintain security and stability in key maritime trade routes. The international operation aims to fight drug trade, smuggling, terrorism and piracy, and if necessary, to respond to humanitarian and natural disaster-caused emergencies. According to 2024 data, the Combined Maritime Forces includes 46 member states.
Contribution to the U.S.-led international maritime security operation in the Strait of Hormuz is regulated by the mandate of the Seimas which allows to deploy up to 5 military and civilian personnel of the National Defence system until 31 December 2025.
Currently there are 80 Lithuanian troops deployed across different multinational missions and operations, such as the NATO operations in Iraq and EUNAVFOR ATALANTA, in contribution to the allied efforts to ensure peace and security in the Middle East.
Lithuania marks the 30th anniversary since the first international deployment this year. More than 8 thousand Lithuanian military personnel from all Lithuanian Armed Force services have served in multinational operations in Europe, Asia and Africa since 1994. The active contribution and merits of the Lithuanian Armed Forces have earned high evaluation from the Allies and raised more than one generation of our troops on the invaluable experience.
