For the first time since World War II, Germany will station its troops abroad for a long-term mission. This refers to a mission within NATO, in Lithuania. The German army (Bundeswehr) has announced that the unit will become fully operational by 2027. This is a significant step in the current geopolitical tensions and a clear demonstration of Berlin’s commitment to the security of Eastern Europe.
„We have a clear mission: to ensure the protection, freedom, and security of our Lithuanian allies on the eastern flank of NATO,” said Brigadier General Christoph Huber, commander of the German brigade in Lithuania.
In the past, Germany has deployed troops in Afghanistan, but never in a permanent context. Now, Germany marks a historic moment by sending permanent forces to the region, against the backdrop of Russia’s expansion into Ukraine.
Lithuania borders Belarus, Russia’s ally, and the Russian exclave Kaliningrad, the most likely site of future conflicts between Moscow and NATO. The Baltic States, which were under Soviet control, are extremely concerned about Russia’s intentions, and Berlin and Vilnius have reacted quickly to threats from the Kremlin.
What does the plan involve?
In December 2023, Germany and Lithuania signed a multi-year Action Plan aimed at strengthening NATO’s eastern flank against Russian aggression. This agreement marks the first permanent deployment of German troops abroad since the end of World War II.
Under this plan, Germany will station thousands of combat-ready soldiers in Lithuania by 2027. The recently activated 45th Armored Brigade, at a ceremony near the capital Vilnius, will form the core of this permanent presence. Although the unit is still in formation, it will gradually expand, and by the end of 2025, personnel will reach 500 soldiers.
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