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SZCZECIN, Poland – NATO Multinational Battlegroups in Poland and Lithuania have rotated troops and integrated new contingents into their force. Operating since 2017, these multinational units help to ensure peace on NATO's most vital frontlines. 

In Poland, the U.S. 1-63 Armor Regiment "Desert Rogues" relieved 2-12 Cavalry Regiment "Thunderhorse" at the helm of the Bemowo Piskie-based unit. In Lithuania, the 17th rotation has commenced, with command shifting from Dutch Army Lieutenant Colonel Bes Schillemans to German Army Lieutenant Colonel Malte Bolanz. This was the first time the German-led battlegroup had a commanding officer from outside Germany. The outgoing LTC Schillemans is the German-Dutch 414 Tank Battalion commander. 

Photos © MOD Lithuania and 15th Mechanized Brigade Poland

Led by the U.S. in Poland, and Germany in Lithuania, NATO Multinational Battlegroups operate alongside host-nation defence forces by conducting exercises and vigilance activities. Their presence makes clear that an attack on one Ally will be considered an attack on the whole Alliance. NATO’s battlegroups form part of the biggest reinforcement of NATO’s collective defence in a generation.

Photos © MOD Lithuania and 15th Mechanized Brigade Poland