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Soldiers

Lithuania's Military Service Becomes More Attractive for Young Recruits

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

The Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence, led by Minister Dovile Sakaliene, has taken significant steps to enhance the welfare and motivation of soldiers, making military service more appealing to young recruits. Amendments to laws and a package of measures have introduced improved social and financial guarantees, modern training, and better career opportunities. As a result, the number of young people willing to perform permanent compulsory initial military service is increasing rapidly, with almost 3,000 applications received in the first two quarters of 2025, a 50% higher rate compared to 2023.

Key Takeaways:

  • The number of young people willing to perform permanent compulsory initial military service (NPPKT) has grown rapidly, with almost 3,000 applications received in the first two quarters of 2025, a 50% higher rate compared to 2023.
  • More than 60% of soldiers admitted to professional military service are graduates of NPPKT, indicating the main path to professional service and attracting motivated young people.
  • Professional military service (PKT) is also showing improving trends, with a 20% increase in soldiers joining the Lithuanian Armed Forces during the first three quarters of the year.
  • The number of officers leaving the service has stabilized, with a significant number of officers remaining and continuing their service in the Lithuanian Armed Forces.
  • The interest of graduates in studying at the General Jonas Zemaitis Military Academy of Lithuania is growing, with the academy accepting the largest number of first-year students in 10 years.
  • Amendments to the Law on the Organisation of the National Defence System and Military Service have increased salaries of soldiers in professional military service by 7%, introduced increased bonuses for field exercises and special operations, and raised compensation for food expenses.

Statistics:

  • 2,910 applications received for permanent compulsory initial military service (NPPKT) in the first two quarters of 2025.
  • 50% increase in NPPKT applications compared to 2023.
  • 60% of soldiers admitted to professional military service are graduates of NPPKT.
  • 20% increase in soldiers joining the Lithuanian Armed Forces for professional military service (PKT) during the first three quarters of the year.
  • Salary increase of 7% for soldiers in professional military service.
  • Increased compensation for food expenses up to €16.5 per day.

Sources:

  • Minister of National Defence Dovile Sakaliene's statement regarding the measures to motivate and enhance the well-being of soldiers.
  • Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence press releases regarding the amendments to the Law on the Organisation of the National Defence System and Military Service.
  • Official reports on the number of applications for permanent compulsory initial military service (NPPKT) and professional military service (PKT).

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