On January 1, 2025, in Lithuania, the cyber command, officially known as ltcybercom, commenced operations following its creation by the Ministry of National Defense. This new division of the Armed Forces of Lithuania is tasked with planning and executing operations in cyberspace, deploying strategic and operational communication and information systems, and ensuring compatibility with NATO systems and other state structures.
Vice-Minister Thomas Godlyauskas stated that cybercartum plays a critical role in coordinating military planning and actions in the digital realm, a practice already prevalent in NATO countries. He emphasized that bolstering cyber protection and managing incidents effectively are crucial steps in combating new threats and enhancing national security.
The cyber command’s structure comprises the command headquarters, the communications battalion named after Great Hetman Kristipas Radwila Perkunas, and the Cyber Accompanying Information Technology Service, which was established by reorganizing the IT service of the Ministry of Defense.
The reform of the IT service facilitated the integration of national defense capabilities under cybercommunications control. Furthermore, certain functions were transferred to the National Center for Cybersecurity and the Central Center of State Telecommunications under the Ministry of Defense.
The National Cybersecurity Center will retain its role as the Agency of National Cyber Protection. The establishment of cybercommunications was endorsed by the Lithuanian Seim in July 2024 following amendments to the Law on the armed forces’ structure.