JUNE 10, 2024 – State Partnership Program partners Pennsylvania and Lithuania shared best practices and capabilities over four days in Lithuania, strengthening their enduring relationship.
From April 29 to May 2, personnel from the 193rd Special Operations Wing, 111th Attack Wing, 171st Air Refueling Wing, Pennsylvania Joint Force Headquarters, and Pennsylvania Army National Guard participated in dynamic activities with their Lithuanian counterparts.
Since its establishment in 1993, the partnership between Pennsylvania and Lithuania has exemplified the power of international collaboration in strengthening security and fostering regional stability. As one of the pioneering SPP partnerships, this alliance has flourished and become emblematic of the program’s success in promoting global engagement.
At the core of the Pennsylvania-Lithuania partnership are military-to-military activities, which continue to evolve in scope and frequency to meet the changing needs of both partners.
These activities, tailored to support Lithuania’s military mechanization efforts and National Defense Strategy goals, align closely with the strategic priorities of the U.S. European Command theater and contribute significantly to regional security cooperation.
The engagements included a staff-assisted visit with the Lithuania Air Force (LAF) to assess unit-level intelligence operations and their first chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear subject matter expert exchange.
Other activities included:
- Hot pit refueling fundamentals with LAF counterparts.
- Planning for Exercise Iron Wolf 2024-I.
- Discussions on mobile Air Operations Center operations.
Security Forces subject matter experts also exchanged insights on antiterrorism and force protection measures, enhancing cooperation and readiness.
Participants reviewed the execution of past events and planned future activities.
Beyond the tangible benefits of enhanced military cooperation, the program has created a platform for dialogue, collaboration and friendship that transcends borders and cultural differences.
As both parties look to the future, they remain steadfast in their commitment to advancing shared objectives and promoting regional stability.
By Staff Sgt. Zoe Wockenfuss
171st Air Refueling Wing