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News | Feb. 23, 2026

U.S. Army and Lithuanian Forces Strengthen Partnership in Joint Training Exercise Unified Partners 26

By Sgt. Devin Klecan U.S. Army V Corps

PABRADĖ, Lithuania– Soldiers from the U.S. Army's 407th Civil Affairs Battalion, in coordination with members of the Lithuanian Riflemen's Union, successfully concluded the joint training exercise Unified Partners 26, held from January 14-17, 2026.

The exercise, conducted at the General Silvestras Žukauskas Training Area and Camp Taurus Training Area in Pabradė, Lithuania, focused on enhancing interoperability, building mutual capabilities, and reinforcing the enduring partnership between the United States and Lithuania. Participants engaged in realistic, scenario-based training that emphasized critical combat skills, including tactical combat casualty care (TCCC)and a combat lifesaver (CLS)practical examination—essential proficiencies for modern multi-domain operations.

Support from additional U.S. Army units bolstered the exercise, with elements of the1st Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team, providing Bradley Fighting Vehicles to facilitate integrated mounted operations and tactical maneuvers. This marked a historic milestone, as it represented one of the first instances in over a century where the Lithuanian Riflemen's Union conducted mounted training alongside U.S. Army forces.

The primary objective of Unified Partners 26was to reaffirm a shared commitment to collective defense, regional security, and the enduring strength of the NATO Alliance. The training promoted joint readiness and showcased the capabilities of both U.S. Army forces and Lithuanian partners in support of NATO's deterrence posture on the Eastern Flank.

As V Corps—the U.S. Army's forward-deployed senior tactical headquarters—continues to synchronize training and readiness activities across Europe, exercises like Unified Partners 26 exemplify the Corp's mission to compete across the competition continuum, deter potential aggression, and assure Allies and partners on NATO's Eastern Flank.

V Corps remains committed to deepening partnerships through bilateral and multinational training opportunities that enhance collective security and readiness.