Military
Over recent years, Lithuania and Europe have seen a significant increase in demand for professional translators with practical experience in defense-related content. At Skrivanek, we have assembled a strong team of experts who specialize in translating defense-sector materials for armed forces and the defense industry.
Following the outbreak of war in Ukraine, there has been a marked rise in the need for translations involving defense-related texts, including diverse documents and materials connected to NATO and EU member states’ armed forces, military aviation, naval forces, civil protection, and battlefield medicine.
A key distinction in translating defense documents lies in adherence to NATO’s terminology directive (PO(2015)0193). According to this directive, translations of all Alliance documents must employ harmonized and standardized NATO terminology. Translators specializing in defense texts must consistently monitor the latest updates in NATO terminology. Translations for the defense industry cover a broad spectrum of materials, varying significantly in complexity and confidentiality, such as:
- Documents from EU and NATO member state institutions related to national and international security, including legal documents;
- Technical documentation for armed forces and defense industries covering military equipment, machinery, specialized devices, weaponry, and vehicles;
- Presentations, catalogs, and marketing materials from companies providing services to the defense sector;
- Official statements and communications from military personnel and high-ranking officials, addressing not only conflicts but also natural disasters, crises, and civil protection issues impacting national security and governed by specialized legal regulations;
- Descriptions of military operations in conflict zones;
- Training materials for soldiers and commanding officers;
- Military medical documentation;
- Restricted or classified information documents, among others.
Military Sector Interpreters
In addition to written translations, Skrivanek also provides interpreting services in the defense sector, typically offered during:
- High-level international conferences and diplomatic meetings
- International live military exercises and online defense webinars
- Military exchange visits and delegations
- Demonstrations of military equipment, technology, and combat vehicles
- Conflict zones, assisting UN and other international observers
- Defense exhibitions and industry-specific events held across Europe
Skrivanek provides defense-sector interpreting services in all official EU languages, tailored to the countries, institutions, organizations, and companies involved in each project or event. We work with over 110 professional interpreters and translators, all carefully selected and vetted through our internal security procedures, in-depth interviews, and document verification processes to ensure their suitability for each specific assignment—especially in contexts requiring subject-matter expertise and a high level of discretion.
Given the current situation in Ukraine, we have also adapted to meet the growing demand for military interpretation and translation services between Ukrainian and English in both directions.
Military Interpreting – A Bridge Across Languages and Cultures
Interpreting in the defense sector is a form of bilateral, cross-cultural communication carried out by professional interpreters under both standard and extreme military conditions. It involves the oral translation of various types of military content to facilitate clear and effective communication between people of different languages and cultural backgrounds.
Military interpreting goes beyond terminology related to weapons, service, and foreign languages—it also encompasses a wide range of related fields, such as:
- Medicine
- Law
- Human resources management
- Politics and diplomacy
- Information technology
- Biochemistry
- Civil protection
An Experienced Interpreter – The Key to a Successful Translation Process
Every military interpreter must possess the necessary qualifications and professional experience to deliver translations that are not only technically accurate but also faithful to the original intent. Defense sector clients often work with highly complex technical documentation, making precision and attention to detail an absolute must.
At Skrivanek, we have extensive experience translating defense-related content in areas such as shipbuilding, military aviation, battlefield medicine, and military engineering.
Upon signing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA), we are happy to provide more details during a meeting about how our office handles confidential projects. We can also supply references upon request.
The Role of the Interpreter in Military Conflict Zones
The primary task of military interpreters in conflict areas is to provide both spoken and written linguistic support. Unlike civilian interpreters, they must adhere to military regulations, follow orders without exception, and often serve as mediators in high-pressure situations.
Beyond linguistic accuracy, these interpreters must also recognize and convey intercultural nuances, ensuring that communication is not only clear but contextually appropriate.
Before deployment, a military interpreter is expected to thoroughly prepare by reviewing all relevant details—such as the time and location of the mission, common acronyms, names, ranks, and roles of participants, as well as any additional languages that may be used during communication.
Entrust Your Military Translations to Skrivanek Experts
Skrivanek is an international language service provider with more than 30 years of experience across the European market. We have extensive expertise in translating documents for institutions such as NATO, the EU, and the UN, as well as for companies that work with these organizations.
Our team of experienced translators is ready to support you with even the most complex and specialized documentation.
To learn more about our services and areas of expertise, feel free to contact us at info@skrivanek.lt — we’ll be happy to discuss the specifics of your project and arrange a confidentiality agreement as needed.
Complete Information Security
We fully understand that confidentiality is more critical today than ever—and in the defense sector, it can directly impact the safety or even the lives of both civilians and military personnel. When partnering with Skrivanek, you can rest assured that your data is in safe hands.
We have implemented comprehensive information security management procedures, including ISO 27001 certification, which guarantees the protection of all data we handle.
Defense translation often involves working under unique conditions, such as limited internet access or strict security protocols. Our staff and translators possess the expertise and experience necessary to successfully manage even the most sensitive and complex projects.
Are you in need of language services? Start by submitting a request.
We will send you an offer immediately. After receiving your confirmation, we will begin the process.
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