Chief of Defence (Lithuania)

The Chief of Defence of Lithuania (Lithuanian: Lietuvos kariuomenės vadas) is the professional head of the Lithuanian Armed Forces. They are responsible for the military command and control of the armed forces and report directly to the Minister of National Defence. The Chief of Defence is the highest-ranking military officer in Lithuania and serves as the principal military advisor to the President of Lithuania and the Minister of National Defence on all matters relating to national defence.

Responsibilities:

• Leading the Lithuanian Armed Forces in peacetime and wartime.
• Planning and executing military operations.
• Developing and implementing military doctrine and strategy.
• Managing the training and readiness of the armed forces.
• Representing Lithuania in international military forums.
• Advising the Minister of National Defence on military matters.
• Implementing decisions made by the State Defence Council.

Appointment:

The Chief of Defence is appointed and dismissed by the President of Lithuania, upon the recommendation of the Minister of National Defence. The appointment is typically for a term of five years.

Rank:

The Chief of Defence typically holds the rank of Lieutenant General or General.

Chain of Command:

The Chief of Defence is part of the direct chain of command within the Lithuanian Armed Forces, reporting to the Minister of National Defence and ultimately to the President of Lithuania, who serves as the Supreme Commander-in-Chief.