German forces are set to permanently station a unit outside of its own borders for the first time in history, as they begin deploying soldiers to Lithuania, a NATO member country. Initially, about 2 dozen soldiers have arrived in the Baltic country, with another 150 expected to join them later this year. The total planned deployment is set to reach 5,000 by the end of 2027.
The move was welcomed by Lithuanian Defense Minister Laurynas Kasciunas as a great example for all countries on NATO’s eastern flank, facing Russia and Belarus. The goal is to create a defense and deterrence structure that will prevent any aggression against NATO member states.
Germany’s Defense Minister Boris Pistorious noted that this is the first time Germany has permanently stationed a unit outside of its own borders. The deployment of about 4,800 German army soldiers and 200 civilians in Lithuania comes in response to growing concerns about neighboring countries’ aggressiveness. The German brigade will be stationed in bases prepared by Lithuania, near the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad and Belarus. This deployment is independent, not part of a multinational force, and marks a significant shift in Germany’s military presence.
The Lithuanian Defense Chief Valdemaras Rupsys emphasized the importance of NATO’s unity and collective defense in this deployment. Germany has pledged to equip the brigade appropriately and will support the mission effectively from the beginning. The goal is to strengthen security in the region and demonstrate the commitment to NATO’s defense principles.
