Tag: eastern flank

German Brigade Begins Lithuania War Drills

Commander of the German Army's Panzer Brigade 45 in Lithuania, Brigadier General Christoph Huber, exits a Puma infantry fighting vehicle at the start of the "Freedom Shield 2026" exercise. The brigade's first combat exercise involves 2,900 soldiers from eight nations and 800 vehicles | Photo: Kay Nietfeld/dpa

Germany’s new armoured brigade in Lithuania has completed its first live-fire exercise, bringing together nearly 3,000 troops and 800 vehicles from eight NATO nations as the alliance strengthens its eastern defences.

Germany Boosts NATO Role in Lithuania

German Parliament (Bundestag) President Julia Kloeckner is welcomed to the military base by Colonel Andre Hastenrath, Deputy Commander of Panzerbrigade 45 "Lithuania" (L), and Lieutenant Colonel Sebastian Hagen, Commander of the "Multinational Battlegroup Lithuania" on April 09, 2026, at RUkla in Lithuania | Photo: Alexander Welscher/dpa

Germany says its troop deployment in Lithuania shows commitment to NATO’s eastern flank. A new brigade aims to strengthen deterrence against Russia and reinforce security in the Baltic region.