Germany and Lithuania Sign Defense Declaration on Air Defense and Drones

Germany and Lithuania have signed a new declaration expanding bilateral defense cooperation across air defense, counter-drone capabilities, electronic warfare and military mobility. The agreement was signed in Berlin on November 4, 2026, by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and Lithuanian Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas during the Berlin Security Conference.

The declaration establishes priorities for closer integration of the two countries' armed forces and defense industries. It builds on Germany's ongoing deployment of a permanent combat brigade to Lithuania, which has become one of the central elements of NATO's military presence on its northeastern flank.

Air Defense and Counter-UAS Among Main Priorities

Under the declaration, Germany and Lithuania intend to deepen cooperation in developing military capabilities, conducting joint experiments and improving interoperability between their armed forces.

Air defense and protection against unmanned aircraft are identified as major priorities. The two countries also plan to expand cooperation in electronic warfare, military intelligence, space security, cyber defense and protection against hybrid threats.

The agreement addresses military mobility, logistics and medical support, with the aim of improving the ability of German and Lithuanian forces to operate together. Closer cooperation between Germany's territorial defense forces, Lithuania's National Defence Volunteer Forces and the Lithuanian Riflemen's Union is also planned.

The two governments intend to explore common or interchangeable solutions in future defense procurement and opportunities to use European Union financing instruments.

The declaration does not itself constitute a new weapons purchase agreement. Its commitments are expected to be implemented through a separate action plan.

German Brigade Remains Central to Lithuania's Defense

Germany's permanent military deployment remains the foundation of the bilateral defense relationship. Berlin is establishing its 45th Armored Brigade in Lithuania, with approximately 5,000 German military personnel and civilians expected to be stationed in the country when the formation reaches full operational capability.

Lithuania has confirmed that the main infrastructure needed to host the brigade is expected to be ready by the end of 2027. Construction at the Rūdninkai military facility is progressing as part of the wider deployment program.

AdriaDefense previously reported on Germany's expanding military presence in Lithuania, including Rheinmetall's contract to develop a modular military camp supporting the Bundeswehr deployment.

The new declaration extends cooperation beyond stationing troops. For defense companies, its significance lies in potential future demand for interoperable air defense systems, counter-UAS technologies, communications infrastructure and electronic warfare equipment.

Specific procurement opportunities will depend on how the two governments translate the declaration into budgets, technical requirements and contracts.

Source: Lithuanian Ministry of National Defense, November 4, 2026.