Germany has started building its first permanent military base abroad in Lithuania. The base will host a brigade of 4,800 German military personnel and 200 civilians. The plan was agreed upon in December 2023, and construction began in August 2024. This project marks a significant development in Germany’s military and security strategy.
A New Chapter in German Military History
This military base will be the largest in Lithuania’s history. It will be located in the Rūdninkai Training Area in southeastern Lithuania. The base is expected to be operational by next year, with full capabilities reached by 2027. Lithuania’s Ministry of Defense announced that the country will spend €125 million ($139 million) to build the necessary infrastructure. Meanwhile, Germany will supply the troops and equipment.
Strategic Significance
The German brigade stationed in Lithuania will include 5,000 personnel and 2,000 vehicles. This deployment is part of Germany’s larger strategy to bolster NATO’s eastern flank. The Bundeswehr, Germany’s armed forces, described the project as a “beacon” of Germany’s new approach to security policy. The decision reflects Germany’s response to growing security concerns in Europe, especially following Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Financial Commitment
The German Ministry of Defense expects the brigade to require significant investment. A one-time cost of €6 to 9 billion is projected, primarily for weapons systems. Additionally, the annual operating expenses are estimated at €800 million. Germany has already had a military presence in Lithuania for the past six years, leading NATO’s enhanced forward presence in the country. Currently, 800 German military personnel are stationed there on a rotational basis.
Zeitenwende: A New Era in Security
Germany’s decision to station troops permanently in Lithuania is part of a broader shift in its security and defense policy. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz heralded a “Zeitenwende,” ushering in a new age for European security, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Germany increased its defense spending and took on a more active role in NATO, particularly on its eastern front.
Growing NATO Presence in the Baltic Region
Germany is not the only NATO member increasing its military presence in the Baltic states. Canada and the United Kingdom have also taken on leadership roles. Two Canadian battalions are expected to arrive in Latvia by 2025. Meanwhile, the UK has pledged to maintain a rapid deployment force ready to move to the region if needed. NATO is strengthening its deterrence against potential threats through these efforts.
A Message of Solidarity, Not Intimidation
During the ceremony marking the start of construction, Nils Hilmer, Germany’s State Secretary for Defense, emphasized that the deployment of German troops so close to Russia demonstrates the “Zeitenwende” in action. He highlighted the importance of reliable support and solidarity among NATO allies.
Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė also spoke at the ceremony. She stressed that the intention is not to threaten or intimidate anyone. Instead, the goal is to ensure that Lithuania can defend itself if challenged. German troops aim to deter potential aggressors and reassure Lithuania of its security.
Future Prospects
The construction of Germany’s first permanent military base abroad marks a significant shift in both German and NATO defense strategies. The base in Lithuania will enhance NATO’s presence in the Baltic region and serve as a deterrent to potential threats. As Germany continues to adapt to new security challenges, this project represents a tangible step towards a more robust and proactive defense posture in Europe.