From January 1, 2023, Germany will lead NATO military forces at the highest level of readiness. This was reported by the press service of the Alliance.

NATO's Very High Readiness Joint Task Force (VJTF) was established in 2014 from the strengthened NATO Response Force following Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea and the crises in the Middle East.

Germany to take over leadership of force after France led it in 2022. In response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February of this year, NATO deployed elements of the VJTF to Romania to carry out the first-ever unit of the collective defense mission..

“Germany is an important member of the Alliance and we are grateful to Germany for leading the VJTF in 2023. As Russia's illegal war against Ukraine continues to threaten peace and security in Europe, there should be no doubt about NATO's determination to defend every inch of the Alliance's territory.. The VJTF is NATO's First Response Force and a key element of our collective defense. Germany's leadership is a powerful manifestation of its commitment and capabilities,” said NATO Representative Oana Lungescu.

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The VJTF is the highest readiness element of the NATO Response Force.

Leadership and membership in the VJTF are annually determined between the countries of the Alliance. In 2023, the VJTF ground forces will have about 11,500 thousand troops, the core of which will be the 37th Panzergrenadier Brigade. In total, nine NATO countries will contribute (Belgium, Czech Republic, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Germany, the Netherlands, Norway, Slovenia and the Czech Republic). Among the main units are the German 393rd tank battalion, the 345th artillery battalion, the 131st transport battalion and the 30th transport assault regiment..