Vilnius, Lithuania — Colonel Gytis Kazokas has officially assumed the role of Director at the NATO Energy Security Centre of Excellence (ENSEC COE), taking over from his predecessor, Colonel Darius Užkuraitis. The change in leadership marks a significant moment for the Centre, which plays a crucial role in strengthening NATO’s energy security capabilities.
Colonel Kazokas, a seasoned military officer with an extensive career spanning over three decades, brings a wealth of experience to the position. He began his military service in 1992 and has since served in various capacities within the Lithuanian Armed Forces, including Land Forces units, Special Operations Forces, Military Police and the Lithuanian Armed Forces Defence Staff. His distinguished service record includes participation in international missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, where he gained valuable operational experience in complex and challenging environments.
A graduate of the Lithuanian Military Academy and Baltic Defence College, Colonel Kazokas holds a master’s degree in political science, further enhancing his strategic and leadership credentials. His academic background, combined with his extensive field experience, positions him well to lead the NATO ENSEC COE, an institution that is increasingly pivotal in addressing the growing challenges related to energy security in the Euro-Atlantic area.
Colonel Kazokas takes the helm at a time when energy security is a top priority for NATO, given the ongoing geopolitical tensions and the strategic importance of energy resources. His leadership is expected to guide the Centre in developing innovative strategies, conducting research, and providing expertise to NATO member states and partners in ensuring the resilience of energy infrastructure.
In his first statement as Director, Colonel Kazokas expressed his commitment to building on the work of his predecessor and continuing to enhance the Centre’s role within NATO. “It is an honor to lead the NATO Energy Security Centre of Excellence at time when energy security became one of the defence priority. I understand the importance of energy security, not only for my country, but also for the countries of the entire NATO alliance and partners, and I will seek, in support of ENSEC COE colleagues, to make the center an instrument capable of helping to solve these issues” he said.
Colonel Darius Užkuraitis, who led the Centre with distinction, has been praised for his contributions, particularly in strengthening the Centre’s research capabilities and fostering greater collaboration among NATO allies on energy security issues. His tenure saw the Centre grow in influence and capability, setting a strong foundation for Colonel Kazokas to build upon.