German Brigade Logistics Hub Inaugurated in Rukla, Lithuania, Bolstering NATO's Eastern Flank

Strategic Logistics Hub Opens in Rukla

Rukla, Lithuania – A crucial Permanent Logistics and Support Area (PLSA) for the German brigade and NATO allies was officially inaugurated on Monday, September 29, 2025, in Rukla, Lithuania. The new facility, located in a former vehicle depot in the Jonava District, is designed to enhance military equipment maintenance and storage capabilities, significantly bolstering the Alliance's presence on its eastern flank.

The opening ceremony was attended by prominent officials, including German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, Commander of the German brigade in Lithuania Christoph Huber, and Lithuanian counterpart Dovilė Šakalienė. Minister Pistorius hailed the PLSA as an 'important and tangible achievement' that will ensure the sustainability of deterrence efforts in the region.

Enhancing Readiness and Deterrence

The newly opened logistics hub is central to supporting the German 45th Armoured Brigade and the multinational battlegroup stationed in Lithuania. Its primary function is to provide essential services for the maintenance and storage of Allied vehicles, equipment, and supplies, alongside offering dedicated workspace for personnel. This infrastructure is vital for the operational readiness of forces committed to NATO's collective defense.

The German brigade commander, Christoph Huber, indicated that the unit is currently focused on its own training, with joint exercises alongside allies slated for the upcoming summer. The brigade plans to initiate its 'Freedom Shield' exercise series, scheduled to occur twice annually, with the inaugural phase set for early summer 2026.

German Brigade Deployment Progresses

The establishment of the PLSA is a key component of Germany's commitment to permanently deploy a combat-ready brigade to Lithuania. The 45th Armoured Brigade, which was formally activated on April 1, 2025, is expected to reach full operational capability by the end of 2027. This deployment will see approximately 4,000 to 5,000 German troops stationed in Lithuania. By mid-2026, around 2,000 troops are anticipated to be serving in the brigade.

The decision for this permanent deployment, a first in the Bundeswehr's history, was made in 2023 and underscores Germany's increased responsibility for security on NATO's eastern flank.

Significant Infrastructure Investment

The logistics hub is part of a broader, substantial investment in military infrastructure in Rukla. The PLSA itself is built on the site of a former vehicle depot. Other ongoing projects in Rukla include the construction of new barracks, command posts, mess halls, sports facilities, training classrooms, and medical posts, as well as additional equipment depots. The total cost for these infrastructure developments in Rukla is estimated to exceed EUR 200 million, with Germany contributing the majority of the investment. Construction for the permanent logistical support facility commenced in August 2023, with completion initially projected for March 2025, leading to its official opening in late September.