German-led aviation brigade demos NATO’s Rapid Response

A major NATO exercise in the Baltic region showcased the Alliance’s expanding air mobility and deterrence posture, as German-led forces conduct fast-paced multinational operations across four countries.

Exercise Griffin Lightning, which ran from 5 to 23 May 2025, is directed by NATO’s Joint Force Command Brunssum and features more than 800 personnel and over 30 helicopters from Germany’s newly formed Aviation Brigade.

Operating from a temporary airbase in Panevėžys, Lithuania, the brigade is conducting missions into Latvia, Estonia, and Poland to support NATO’s forward-deployed forces.

The brigade, which became operational on 1 January 2025, draws on both the German Army and Air Force to combine Tiger attack helicopters, NH90 and CH-53 transport helicopters, and aeromedical evacuation assets. Its integrated structure provides NATO with a flexible force of roughly 2,500 personnel capable of executing troop and equipment transport, casualty evacuation, and other mobility tasks in support of Allied operations.

According to NATO’s JFC Brunssum, “this deployment also displays NATO’s growing ability to coordinate joint operational effects across borders.” German helicopters are supporting NATO formations from a rapidly constructed forward base, reflecting NATO’s focus on operational agility and multinational cohesion.

The Aviation Brigade’s participation also supports NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence, particularly Germany’s long-standing leadership of the Battlegroup in Lithuania. Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Berlin committed to stationing a permanent mechanised brigade in Lithuania. The addition of air assets further reinforces that pledge.

Exercise Griffin Lightning incorporates cyber, signals, and security components to ensure interoperability across domains and with partner forces. It is one of several large-scale NATO exercises taking place this year aimed at improving readiness and delivering a unified message of deterrence.

As NATO’s Joint Force Command put it, “Griffin Lightning strengthens Alliance cohesion, builds interoperability, and demonstrates the ability to project force rapidly and effectively across NATO territory. It sends a clear and unambiguous message: NATO remains united, prepared, and capable of defending every inch of Allied territory.”