The Seimas of Lithuania approved amendments that allow the army to quickly shoot down UAVs
On September 23, the Seimas of Lithuania approved amendments that allow the army to neutralize drones that threaten the country’s airspace faster and easier. Amendments to the Law on Aviation and the Statute on the Use of Military Force were supported by all the deputies present, reports LRT.
Amendments were adopted according to a special urgent procedure, because, according to the statute of the Seimas, this is possible when it is necessary to “immediately ensure the vital interests of society and the state”.
Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovile Šakaliene noted that the current legal acts and procedures previously did not correspond to modern threats and their changing nature:
“With this amendment to the Use of Military Force Statute, we create a new legal mechanism so that military force can be used promptly against drones in restricted areas if their flights are conducted in violation of the order established by the commander of the army”.
According to the changes, military force can be used against drones in prohibited or restricted areas if their flights violate established conditions, restrictions or order, at the discretion of the Secretary of Defense or a person authorized by him. Previously, soldiers were authorized to use force only against aircraft used as weapons in restricted areas.
The Ministry of Defense of Lithuania, which developed these changes, reported that the army will be able to respond more flexibly and effectively to violations of airspace by drones and, if necessary, use military force to neutralize threats.
At the same time, the agency emphasized that even if there are legal grounds, military force will be used only if it is absolutely necessary, taking all possible precautions to avoid serious consequences for people and property.
In addition, the amendments provide for a mechanism for activation of restricted zones and notification procedures in case of violation of airspace. According to the new rules, civil aircraft are prohibited from flying in such zones without special permission. It also introduces the obligation for pilots to use radio communication and a transponder during flights in uncontrolled airspace.
