Joining NATO: Transforming the Lithuanian Armed Forces for the New Tasks

摘要

This paper assesses the political and historic background of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization's (NATO) expansion to encompass the Republic of Lithuania. The author examines the history and geopolitical background of Lithuanian national security, including the events of 1939-1940, and the continued resistance of Lithuania to Soviet occupation from 1940 to 1990. The paper also reviews Lithuania's achievement of independence in 1990, and the subsequent try by the USSR to force the country back into the Soviet Union. The author then describes the establishment and development of the Lithuanian Armed Forces from 1990 to 2003, including its transformation into a modern, well- trained military force equipped for future tasks, and analyzes its potential contribution to joint operations with NATO countries in the 21st century. The author also discusses the change in Lithuanian defense strategy from the Total Defense Strategy to the NATO Collective Defense Strategy. The contributions of Lithuania to NATO and the European Union upon full completion of its membership obligations will enhance stability and security within the European continent. The Lithuanian government supports U.S. policy in the war on international terrorism and contributes significantly to the current war in Iraq. In return, Lithuania is sure to benefit from NATO security guarantees, as the success and effectiveness of alliances depend on the mutual advantages attained by all parties. Lithuania will add its contributions to NATO forces when it becomes a full NATO member. (2 tables, 2 figures, 13 refs.).