Lithuania has approved new response procedures to address drone threats, including the use of sirens during Russian UAV incursions. The decision follows two recent drone incidents, including a crash of an armed Russian Gerbera drone in July after entering from Belarus. The country’s defense ministry has emphasized the need for immediate alerts to ensure the safety of citizens and critical infrastructure.
The Gerbera drones, known for their advanced capabilities, have become a growing concern for NATO members due to their potential for both surveillance and offensive operations. Lithuania’s move to incorporate sirens into its counter-drone strategy is part of a broader effort to enhance security in response to increasing aerial threats from Russia. The incidents in July underscore the vulnerabilities in the region’s borders, particularly with Belarus serving as a conduit for Russian military activity.
Defense officials have stated that the sirens will be activated as part of a coordinated response to drone incursions, allowing for rapid detection and mitigation. This measure is expected to be integrated with existing defense systems to create a more robust framework for dealing with aerial threats. The approval of these procedures reflects Lithuania’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity in the face of evolving security challenges.