Germany launches a deployment of permanent troops on the eastern flank of NATO – Politico

Berlin promised the long -term deployment in 2023, breaking with decades of German defense policy which avoided the permanent parking of combat troops abroad. The unit should be fully operational by 2027 and will finally be based in a new military complex in Rūdninkai, about 30 kilometers south of Vilnius. Until then, the troops will operate from temporary Lithuanian bases.

The plan includes not only the front line forces, but also support units – such as a medical center, a signaling company and command assistance teams – on several locations.

Currently, 150 German troops are stationed in Lithuania. This number should reach 500 by the end of the year.

For NATO, deployment represents a critical part of the passage of the Alliance to deterrent by defense forward. For Germany, this is a major step in the loss of its reputation as a reluctant military power.

Lithuania, which borders Russia Kaliningrad exclave and the ally of the Kremlin, consider the decision to be vital for its national security. The war in Ukraine transformed the Baltic region into a front line area – and the presence of Berlin into a symbol of NATO’s long -term commitment.