Minister Sabutis: “Lithuania is strengthening military mobility – transport infrastructure is being prepared for the deployment of the brigade

Lithuania is implementing ambitious infrastructure projectsaimed at guaranteeing rapid and efficient movement of Allied forces. Acting Minister of Transport and Communications Eugenijus Sabutis met withBrigadier General Christoph Huber, Commander of the German Brigade in Lithuania, to discuss strategically important projects, directly related to the deployment of the brigade in Lithuania.

“Military mobility goes beyond the military dimension – it is also a challenge of logistics and infrastructure. Together with our Allies, Lithuania is smoothly preparing to host the brigade – we are strengthening railways, the road network and terminals. Most importantly, the infrastructure will serve both the armed forces and civilians,” emphasised Minister Sabutis.

Rail Baltica and Palemonas – key pillars of defence

One of the key priorities is the Rail Baltica project, which will integrate the Baltic States into the European rail network. In addition to being the largest railway construction project in the region, it is also a crucial link enabling NATO Allies to move more swiftly across the area.

Another strategic priority is the development of the dual-use cargo loading area in Palemonas.As part of the projects for the construction of a loading yard and 1,435 mm gauge tracks in Palemonas, a 300-space facility for heavy vehicles and three new railway tracks will be completed by 2028, enabling the simultaneous servicing of three trains carrying military equipment. The Kaunas Intermodal Terminal in Palemonas, already connected to the European rail network, provides Lithuania with an additional strategic advantage.

Rūdninkai: the future home of the brigade

With Rūdninkai set to host the German Brigade by the end of 2027, considerable attention is being devoted to the development of its military training infrastructure. Six new access roads to the training area have already been built, and a further four are scheduled for completion by the end of the year.

In addition, a new railway access road of around 9 km is planned from Jašiūnai to Stasylai. This link would allow the rapid and secure transport of military equipment and personnel directly to the training area – making it one of the key connections in the military logistics chain.

“Railways are an integral part of military mobility – they enable the rapid and secure redeployment of Allied forces and equipment. By developing Rail Baltica, investing in dual-use military and civilian infrastructure in Palemonas, and constructing the new rail link to the Rūdninkai training ground, we are strengthening the security of Lithuania and the wider region. LTG Group is ready to ensure that our rail network meets the highest NATO standards and contributes to the effectiveness of the collective defence system,” said LTG CEO Egidijus Lazauskas.

Investment in security – a common priority

During the meeting, Minister Sabutis emphasised Lithuania’s goal of ensuring the timely and high-quality delivery of these projects, as well as securing sufficient funding from the European Union in the upcoming multiannual financial framework.

“We must act swiftly and strategically. The presence of the German brigade in Lithuania is not only a guarantee of defence, but also a sign of trust. And our duty is to be ready,” said the Minister.

Germany plans to deploy a military brigade in Lithuania by the end of 2027.