The camp is planned to accommodate more than 1,000 troops taking part in exercises in the Baltic country. On a seven-hectare site, about EUR40 million ($46.7 million) will be spent to build housing and service buildings, the necessary technical infrastructure and transport links. Construction is expected to be completed in the first half of 2028.
The Lithuanian government says the goal is to provide good conditions for NATO forces so they can train in the country and, if necessary, be stationed there.
“We are investing strategically and comprehensively in military infrastructure so that both the German brigade and the forces of other NATO allies can train effectively in Lithuania and have proper living conditions,” Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas said.
The wider construction project covers 190 hectares and is the largest military infrastructure project in Lithuania’s history.
The Bundeswehr is already forming the 45th tank brigade in Lithuania, with Rudninkai set to be its main base. The German government approved its creation in response to an increased threat from Russia. The unit is to be fully combat-capable by 2027 and will comprise about 4,800 troops and 200 civilian workers; it will also assume command of a multinational battle group in Lithuania.
About 2,000 German service members are already in the
country. Service there is currently voluntary, but German Defense Minister
Boris Pistorius has warned that mandatory deployments could be introduced if
volunteers are lacking.