Lithuanian parliament approves new rules for shooting down drones

The Lithuanian Seimas has approved a simplified procedure for the use of military measures against unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that violate established requirements.

Members of parliament unanimously backed the proposal put forward by the Ministry of Defence during a plenary session, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

Defence Minister Dovile Šakalienė stated that the decision lays down a new framework for the use of military force to allow for a rapid response against violators. She noted that the previous rules were outdated and did not reflect the increased level of threats.

Under the adopted amendments, UAVs can now be shot down if they enter restricted airspace in violation of air traffic regulations set by the military command. Previously, destruction was permitted only if drones were being used as weapons.

Šakalienė stressed that drones will be neutralised only in cases of absolute military necessity, with all possible measures taken to protect civilians and property.

By Khagan Isayev