Lithuanian Navy marks 90th anniversary with maritime ceremony and international presence
On Saturday, July 26, Lithuania celebrated the 90th anniversary of its naval forces during a high-profile ceremony in Klaipėda, held in conjunction with the country’s annual Sea Festival. The event gathered senior Lithuanian state and military officials, allied naval commanders, and international guests to honor the Lithuanian navy’s legacy and commemorate those lost at sea.
In brief
The Lithuanian Navy celebrated its 90th anniversary during the Sea Festival in Klaipėda. The ceremony was attended by President of the Republic of Lithuania Gitanas Nausėda, Ministry of National Defence secretaries of state Orijana Mašalė and Loreta Maskaliovienė, Commander of the Lithuanian Armed Forces General Raimundas Vaikšnoras and navy commanders of NATO allied countries. The culmination of the celebrations was the laying of wreaths on the waters of the Baltic Sea and a ceremonial parade of warships. The Lithuanian Navy was established in 1935.
The ceremony was attended by the president of the Republic of Lithuania, Gitanas Nausėda, deputy ministers of national defence Orijana Mašalė and Loreta Maskaliovienė, chief of defence Gen. Raimundas Vaikšnoras, branch commanders, as well as representatives of allied naval forces and various governmental institutions.
A highlight of the event was a solemn tribute to those who perished at sea: ceremonial wreaths were laid in the Baltic Sea, accompanied by a coordinated passage of military vessels — a symbolic act of remembrance and unity. The maritime homage underscored the enduring values of duty, sacrifice, and cooperation across allied navies.
In his address, President Nausėda emphasized the navy’s crucial role in national and regional security: - The Lithuanian navy is not only an integral part of our armed forces, but a cornerstone in ensuring maritime stability and peace in the Baltic Sea region.
Founded in 1935, the Lithuanian naval forces began with a modest fleet and have evolved into a modern, NATO-integrated maritime component. Today, the navy actively participates in allied operations, contributes to regional deterrence, and continues to expand its capabilities in line with evolving security challenges.
The 90th anniversary celebration served not only as a moment to honor the navy’s heritage, but also as a reaffirmation of Lithuania’s strategic commitment to maritime defence and international cooperation in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.
Source: Gazeta Morska · Compiled by: Kamil Kusier
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