Lithuania will sound air raid sirens if a drone posing a danger enters the country again, Interior Minister Vladislav Kondratovič told LRT RADIO on Friday.
“In the event of an incursion, if it is identified that the drone may be carrying explosives, a red alert is likely to be issued. If that happens, residents should not be surprised – there may be not only phone alerts but also sirens and other warning measures,” the minister said.
If the military determines the drone is not dangerous or is unlikely to enter Lithuanian territory, a yellow-level alert would be declared, Kondratovič said.
“Residents of areas where the drone might potentially fly would receive warning messages telling them to take precautions, just as happened last time,” he added.
The algorithm for responding to airspace incidents was approved last week. It stipulates that if Russia attacks Ukraine with drones, Lithuania’s responsible institutions and the armed forces will mobilise resources and raise the level of alert.
Airspace will be monitored not only by the military but also by border guards. In the event of an actual threat, available means will be prepared to neutralise potential targets, according to the guidelines.
Lithuania introduced these measures after two Gerbera drones used by Russia entered the country’s airspace from Belarus in July. One of them was carrying 2 kilogrammes of explosives.
Military representatives believe both drones entered Lithuania after their flight path was diverted by electronic warfare measures amid attacks on Ukraine.
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