‘RUNWAY RUN 24' on the 20th anniversary of Baltic Air Policing

• The event counted with the leading role of the F18 of the Detachment 'Vilkas' of the BAP-65

Siauliai Air Base hosted the 20th edition of the sporting and festive event 'Runway Run 24'. It is the only one that brings together several thousand people year after year, and takes place on the alternative runway of the Lithuanian air base.

The race, of a civil-military nature, was carried out within the framework of the local and national events commemorating the 20th anniversary of the beginning of the mission. It is an event of special significance, not only due to the high participation of nearly 10,000 people, but also because of the symbolic value that the Lithuanian people attribute to the event as a representation of the defence of fundamental values such as democracy and freedom.

The 'Vilkas' Detachment, as a guest, participated in the event together with Lithuanian and allied militaries, organisations, sports clubs, educational institutions, and enthusiasts of all age groups.

The Detachment's participation, in addition to personnel, consisted of providing two F18s to the static display along with weaponry, equipment and technology from the host country, an information table. Moreover, attendees could witness the take-off of two F18 fighters, which marked the kick-off of the event.

The aim of this race was to remind people that Lithuanians have been part of the strongest military alliance, NATO, since March 2004, 20 years ago.