The Commander of the German Army Aviation Brigade, Brigadier General Dr. Volker Bauersachs, visited Panevėžys City Municipality. He was accompanied by Captain Mangirdas Valeckas, Head of the S5 Section of the Staff of the Lithuanian Armed Forces Infantry Brigade "Iron Wolf", the King Mindaugas Hussar Battalion.

"It is a great honour for me to welcome you in our municipality following the successful completion of international military exercises. This is an important event for both our local community and the entire country. Especially today, more than ever before, we understand that collective defence, international solidarity, and unity among allies are the key pillars ensuring peace and freedom in our country. For this, we express our sincere respect and gratitude. Your presence here sends a very clear message to our community: we are not alone; we are part of a strong partnership based on trust and shared responsibility for the freedom and security of us all," said Panevėžys City Mayor Loreta Masiliūnienė.

During the meeting, the objectives of the large-scale NATO allied exercise "Griffin Lightning 2025", held from May 3 to 23, were discussed. The parties also talked about cooperation with local institutions and had a discussion on geopolitical topics.

As part of the "Griffin Lightning 2025" exercise, around 30 German military aircraft were redeployed to Lithuania, including TIGER attack helicopters, NH90 transport helicopters, CH-53 heavy transport helicopters, and EC135 light multipurpose helicopters. The flights cover a large part of Lithuania's territory, including border areas.

"Griffin Lightning 2025" was organized by the NATO Multinational Corps Northeast. The exercise spanned large parts of Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, and Estonia. Such large-scale military exercises are conducted in Lithuania every two years.