Feb 4 2025

Lithuania re-establishes 1st Mechanized Division to strengthen NATO's eastern flank

SZCZECIN, Poland – During the official ceremony in Rukla, Lithuania, January 28, the Lithuanian Armed Forces re-established the 1st Mechanized Division to enhance the country’s military capabilities and strengthen NATO's deterrence on the eastern flank. Following Lithuania's declaration of intent to become the Multinational Corps Northeast (MNC NE) fourth framework nation, the Division is envisioned to get integrated with MNC NE and serve as a robust and interoperable force on the Alliance's eastern border.

The Division has come under the command of Brigadier General Aurelijus Alasauskas and is formed by the Lithuanian Land Force Brigades Iron Wolf and Griffin, Reserve Brigade Aukštaitija, along with air defence, engineer, reconnaissance and artillery units. The Division staff will begin arrangements for military training of the assigned units as of this year aiming for Full Operational Capacity (FOC) by 2030. Upon achieving FOC, the Division will serve as a key element in the Allied defence of Lithuania.

"The re-established of the 1st Division, dating back to the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, marks a quality milestone in the Lithuanian Armed Forces. We are expanding our deterrence and victory capacities," underscored Lithuania's Chief of Defence, General Raimundas Vaikšnoras.

In attendance were Lithuania's state and military officials, as well as Allies from across the region. Photo © Lithuanian Armed Forces

The creation of a national division will enable Lithuania to further enhance its integration with NATO. After Lithuania signed a letter of intent to become Multinational Corps Northeast's fourth framework nation, the 1st Mechanized Division is planned to work in concert with the Corps as one of its division-level commands. "Multinational Corps Northeast's future is bound up with Lithuania," said Lieutenant General Dariusz Parylak, Commander MNC NE, who attended the event in Rukla.

I truly look forward to working with you, and I know that together we will be better prepared to answer the challenges of tomorrow.

The Division is expected to operate main battle tanks, wheeled and tracked infantry fighting vehicles, as well as expanded capabilities in air defence, engineering, reconnaissance and artillery.