Lithuania to build camp for over 1,000 NATO troops at Rūdninkai training ground

Lithuania is set to construct a new camp at the Rūdninkai training ground, designed to house more than 1,000 soldiers from Germany and other NATO allied nations. The Ministry of National Defence announced that the project will involve an investment exceeding 40 million euros.

The new facility will be situated on a seven-hectare area and will include residential buildings and engineering infrastructure. This development is intended to accommodate allied troops who will be arriving in Lithuania for training exercises. "We are investing strategically and comprehensively in military infrastructure, so we know what is needed for both the German brigade and troops from other NATO allies to train effectively and have adequate living conditions in Lithuania," stated the Minister of National Defence, Robertas Kaunas. He added that the Rūdninkai camp demonstrates Lithuania's commitment as a host nation.

In addition to accommodation, the camp will feature necessary engineering and transport infrastructure for soldiers and personnel. Importantly, all the infrastructure built for the camp will remain the property of Lithuania and can also be utilized by the Lithuanian Armed Forces. This initiative is part of a broader plan to develop modern military infrastructure in the Rūdninkai area.

This project is linked to the second phase of the Rūdninkai military town development, which involves significant public-private partnerships. The total nominal value for the second phase's design, construction, and maintenance is estimated to be around 700 million euros (excluding VAT). The overall military base, located approximately 23 kilometers south of Vilnius and 35 kilometers from the Belarusian border, is planned to span 170 hectares and eventually host several thousand troops. Germany confirmed in the fall of 2023 its intention to permanently deploy a combat-ready brigade in Lithuania, comprising about 5,000 soldiers and civilians, with the brigade expected to reach full operational capacity by 2027.

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We are investing strategically and comprehensively in military infrastructure, so we know what is needed for both the German brigade and troops from other NATO allies to train effectively and have adequate living conditions in Lithuania. The new camp in Rūdninkai is proof that we are exemplary allies and are fulfilling Lithuania's obligations as a host country.