Last week, the Joint Command and General Staff Course (JCGSC) and Civil Servants’ Course (CSC) participants conducted a Baltic Defence Study Tour (BDST).
This visit constitutes an integral component of the courses’ curriculum and takes place within the Security and Strategy Module. The module's aim is to gain knowledge of how international, regional, and domestic political developments affect national security strategy and defence policies. During the BDST, participants deepen their understanding of each nation's defence policy, decision-making principles, and defence planning priorities. The BDST also contributes to familiarization with national military structures, including NATO’s regional presence, and to developing a clearer understanding of national military installations and facilities.
First Stop – Lithuania
The trip started in Vilnius at the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defence (MoND). The delegation was officially welcomed by Interior Minister Vladislav Kondratovič, who was serving as the Acting Defence Minister during the visit. Minister Kondratovič delivered the opening remarks, underscoring the importance of international cooperation in the current security environment.
Course participants also received comprehensive briefings from both MoND and Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) officials before proceeding to the Lithuanian Parliament (Seimas). At the Seimas, members of the National Security Committee provided insights into the legislative perspective on national security, rounding out the Lithuanian segment of the visit.
The day in Lithuania ended with
exploring the Šiauliai Air Base, Lithuania’s primary air force facility, and
receiving insights into the Baltic Air Policing mission.
Next Stop – Riga
The delegation's next stop was Riga, Latvia, where the BALTDEFCOL delegation was greeted by Liene Gātere, Parliamentary Secretary of the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
The day in Riga featured in-depth discussions with key government and defence leaders, providing a comprehensive view of the nation's security architecture and its foreign policy priorities on the Eastern Flank of NATO and the EU.
In addition, Ms. Ilze Milta, National Security Advisor to the President of Latvia and Secretary of the National Security Council, provided insight into the President’s role in shaping foreign and security policy.
A highlight of the afternoon was
the visit to the Ādaži military base, a critical hub for NATO's enhanced
Forward Presence. The delegation received detailed briefings from Colonel
Andris Rozitis of the Latvian Mechanized Infantry Brigade, followed by a
presentation from the Canadian Armed Forces on their role leading Task Force
Latvia, emphasizing the multinational commitment to collective defence.
The delegation placed candles at Riga Castle to observe Lāčplēsis Day (November 11th), commemorating the Latvian Army's decisive 1919 victory in the Battle of Riga. This triumph over the West Russian Volunteer Army was a key moment in securing the newly established Latvian state's freedom.
Last Stop – Estonia
Welcoming remarks by Permanent Secretary Mr. Kaimo Kuusk were followed by the Estonian Ministry of Defence briefing by Deputy Undersecretary for Defence and Planning Ms. Kadri Peeters. She offered insights into defence policy and strategic documents, current defence-related issues, and the defence budget.
The briefing series in Estonia was held largely at the Naval Base, offering participants a unique operational perspective. In addition to the lectures, all participants had the opportunity to visit Estonian Naval ships, gaining firsthand insight into maritime capabilities.
Moreover, the BALTDEFCOL delegation also had an opportunity to meet with Mr. Jonatan Vseviov, the Secretary General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who explained political visions regarding foreign policy support for the defence of Estonia and the current challenges. The briefings were concluded by the Estonian Chief of Defence, Lieutenant General Andrus Merilo, and a briefing by the Estonian Defence League.
All the sessions were highly informative, and participants demonstrated strong engagement, with numerous questions reflecting their keen interest in the topics discussed.
The successful completion of the three-nation tour underscores the enduring commitment to regional security cooperation and provides the course participants with a first-hand understanding of the Baltic States' vital role in NATO's defensive posture.
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