“Pikuolis”: Lithuania’s Devil on Wheels
Not all devils belong to myths. Some ride on four wheels, carrying soldiers into the night.
“Pikuolis” is not just a vehicle. For Lithuanian Special Operations Forces, it became a battlefield legend – a Land Rover Defender that carried men into the most dangerous missions of Afghanistan and always brought them back.
A Name from the Underworld
The name “Pikuolis” comes from Lithuanian mythology – the old pagan god of the underworld and ruler of the dead. Soldiers gave this dark, ironic name to their vehicle as a form of warrior humor: a nod to danger, unpredictability, and the ever-present shadow of death in combat.
It was more than a nickname. It captured the spirit of the machine and the mindset of its crew – smiling through the danger, but always serious when it mattered.
Built for War
At its core, “Pikuolis” was a Land Rover Defender, but heavily modified for Special Operations:
- reinforced suspension,
- advanced communications gear,
- mounts for weapons,
- enhanced off-road capability.
To the men who rode it, it wasn’t just transport. It was a comrade. It rolled where others got stuck, survived where others broke down, and came back when there seemed to be no way back. That kind of trust between soldier and machine is rare.
A Legend of Afghanistan
“Pikuolis” served in real combat missions in Afghanistan. It carried soldiers through hostile terrain, across deserts and mountains, often under the cover of night.
In the stories told by Lithuanian operators, “Pikuolis” was more than steel and rubber. It was a partner – one that endured the same dangers, faced the same uncertainty, and helped write chapters of Lithuania’s contribution to NATO missions.
From the Front to the Museum
Today, “Pikuolis” rests in the Vytautas the Great War Museum in Kaunas. But it is not just a museum piece. It stands as a silent reminder of Lithuania’s most dangerous missions abroad, of the partnership with NATO allies, and of the courage it took to ride into the unknown.
Visitors can see up close the vehicle that carried warriors into battle and returned them home. It is a symbol of trust, brotherhood, and determination.
“Pikuolis” Today
The combat roads may be over, but the legend remains. “Pikuolis” has become part of Lithuanian military history – a symbol that blends myth, humor, and real combat experience.
That’s why we created a design dedicated to this vehicle. “Pikuolis” lives on not only in the museum but also as a symbol you can wear proudly – a reminder of courage and history carried into the present.
👉 Get the t-shirt, hoodie or sweatshirt with the “Pikuolis” design here or see the whole collection here.