Germany launches first permanent foreign deployment since WWII – and it’s on Putin’s doorstep
Germany has launched its first permanent military deployment abroad since World War II, sending troops to eastern Lithuania as part of NATO’s efforts to strengthen its eastern flank. The newly established 45th Armored Brigade, comprising 5,000 troops, will be fully operational by 2027, with its headquarters set up in Rūdninkai.
Brigadier General Christoph Huber, who leads the brigade, stated, “We have a clear mission. We have to ensure the protection, freedom and security of our Lithuanian allies here on NATO’s eastern flank.” This marks a historic shift in Germany’s defense policy, which had previously prevented permanent overseas deployments since WWII.
Currently, 150 German troops are stationed in Lithuania, with the number expected to rise to 500 by the end of the year. The brigade includes frontline infantry and support units such as medical and signal teams. Lithuania, which borders Russia’s Kaliningrad exclave and Belarus, sees NATO’s military presence as crucial for its security.
This move represents a significant step away from Germany’s traditionally cautious military stance.