Germany's first permanent brigade abroad since WWII built its war kit for NATO's eastern edge by watching Ukraine

"Germany is permanently deploying a combat brigade abroad to NATO's vulnerable eastern edge for the first time since World War II amid growing concerns about Russian aggression. Unit leadership says it figured out what it needs for war by watching the battles raging in Ukraine. Commander of the 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania, Brigadier Gen. Christoph Huber, told Business Insider that the brigade's aim is to deter Russia and be ready to defend NATO if necessary."

""We really have to assess what's happening right now," the brigade commander said. "We have to introduce new capabilities in our forces based on the lessons identified in the awful war of aggression by Russia in Ukraine." Huber said that it means a mix of newer technology, like drones, and more traditional gear, like air defenses, that have been key for Ukraine,"

"He said a "good mix of capabilities on the ground" is critical for fighting and deterring a "possible war of the future" and sending the message that "here stands NATO, no step further." Tanks and armor Huber said that it is "crucial" for the brigade to employ heavy armor, such as the Leopard 2A8s, the most modern German main battle tanks, and Puma S1 infantry fighting vehicles, as these are core to its commitment."

Germany is permanently stationing the 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania as a frontline NATO deterrent and defensive force, reaching full strength of 4,800 troops by 2027. The deployment marks a post–World War II shift in German defense posture after Russia's full‑scale invasion of Ukraine. Force planning draws directly on battlefield lessons from Ukraine, emphasizing a mix of new technologies such as drones and robust air defenses alongside heavy armor like Leopard 2A8 tanks and Puma S1 infantry fighting vehicles. The brigade is a top national priority and will receive modern equipment to project a clear NATO deterrent.

Read at Business Insider