“Stationing the German Brigade in Lithuania is one of the key priorities of the sitting Government which reflects our strong responsibility to our own citizens and the Allies alike. Lithuanians and Germans have reached many important milestones in the past, likewise, this cooperation will be one more instance of our partnership yielding big wins. We spare no effort to ensure not just the military infrastructure needed but also welfare for the German military personnel and their families – we are investing in quality education, healthcare and service conditions. This cooperation between Lithuania and Germany is strategic and built on the foundation of reciprocal commitment and respect,” said Vice Minister Orijana Mašalė at the event.
The 45th German Brigade will temporarily operate Lithuanian Armed Forces infrastructure near Vilnius – Nemenčinė and military sites of Rokantiškės which house communications, headquarters supply companies, medical and logistical units.
The German 45th Brigade will be permanently stationed in the Rūdninkai Training Area and Rukla. The number of Brigade soldiers and civilians in Lithuania is gradually growing until the final 4800 military ad 200 civilian strength.
On 18 December 2023 Minister of Defence of Germany and Lithuania signed a Roadmap Action Plan in Vilnius thus laying the groundwork for deployment of a brigade-sized Bundeswehr unit in Lithuania.
The process of stationing the Brigade is defined as beginning with the signature of the Roadmap Action Plan and is broken down into the main stages of the process: the initial Brigade element is deployed in Vilnius in 2024; the major part of Brigade personnel moving takes place in 2025-2026; the Brigade is stationed fully and reached full operational capability by the end of 2027. The Brigade will be fully combat-ready and equipped with all necessary equipment, gear, personnel and supplies.
