In February, Norway decided to increase the contribution of Norwegian forces and to strengthen NATO's presence in Lithuania by approximately 50 people for a period of approximately three months. This increased quota was extended for a further three months. Norwegian forces of around 200 people in total will remain in Lithuania until August.
The security situation in Europe remains very demanding and has deteriorated since February. The government is increasing its contribution to NATO forces in Lithuania to show unity and solidarity with Norway's allies.
Norway also plans to contribute after August
The Russian invasion of Ukraine changed the security situation in Europe. NATO and its allies have strengthened the eastern part of the alliance. Multinational battalion battlegroups have been established in Romania, Bulgaria, Slovakia and Hungary, among others. They complement those already in Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania and Poland.
The Norwegian contribution is part of the battalion battle group commanded by the Germans.
NATO in Lithuania
In 2022, the Armed Forces were initially to have a single mechanized company with approximately 140 personnel. It was reinforced in February with one detachment and the necessary support functions. This means that the size of the Norwegian contribution is currently less than 200 soldiers.
The contribution helps to maintain and further develop close military cooperation with Germany and the Netherlands. Belgium, Iceland, the Czech Republic and Luxembourg also have their own forces in Lithuania.
Photo: Frederik Ringnes, Forsvaret
Source: regjeringen
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