On January 7, the list of conscripts for 2026 was finalized, including all eligible young people who meet the legal requirements for military service. In the coming days, the list will be published on www.karys.lt.
The newly enacted Law on Conscription and Alternative National Defense Service introduces changes to the call-up procedure. According to the law, young people are invited to perform mandatory initial military service (PPKT) immediately after finishing school, between the ages of 18 and 22. This period has been chosen deliberately: young people at this stage generally have greater flexibility, have not yet started higher education or professional careers, and can therefore dedicate themselves fully to military training without interfering with personal plans.
“Recently, we have clearly seen how civic-minded today’s youth are. Volunteers—those who come forward on their own, without waiting for a call, and express their desire to contribute to national security—are the best example. At the same time, this shows that the defense system, while introducing innovations, is moving in the right direction. We all equally recognize the geopolitical situation, understand it, and prepare responsibly. Today, the Ministry of National Defense invests significant resources in security, and young people contribute their time and knowledge to the same goal. That is worthy of respect,” said Minister of National Defense Robertas Kaunas.
Call-up in 2026 will continue throughout the year, until December 31. In total, around 5,000 conscripts are expected to be called. The structure of the call-up remains diverse, reflecting the varying needs of the Lithuanian Armed Forces and the abilities of the conscripts:
3,870 young people will be called for a 9-month PPKT.
90 individuals with professions needed by the military will complete a 3-month service.
650 conscripts will serve 160–200 days under junior officer training programs—340 in Lithuanian Armed Forces units, 310 at the Lithuanian Military Academy.
450 young people will be called for 90–120 days of service under programs for basic military training or military specialty qualification, which last three years.
In addition to the usual service locations, in 2026 it will also be possible to complete mandatory initial military service in the Special Operations Forces. Tasks include paratrooper training, drone operator training, and specialized preparation for operations in inland waterways—just a few of the challenges awaiting those serving in the Special Operations Forces. Candidates for this initial military service position can now submit applications at www.karys.lt. Selection will take place on April 18, 2026.
Programs launched in 2025 will also continue, including training in the Grand Duke Kristupas Radvila Perkūnas Communications and Information Systems Battalion, where specialists in basic IT, radio communications, and cybersecurity are prepared, as well as training in the Naval Forces’ Warship Fleet, where soldiers engage in naval service as part of ship crews.
Upon completing service, conscripts may continue their careers in professional military service or in voluntary non-permanent military service. Those who do not choose to continue become reservists of the Lithuanian Armed Forces. Reservists regularly update their military skills and remain ready to defend the country. Service in the active reserve lasts up to 15 years from appointment; during this time, soldiers participate in various exercises and trainings totaling 20–90 days.
Lietuviškai