Dutch troops endure ice-water drills, freezing nights in Lithuania NATO mission
More than 100 Dutch soldiers are undergoing extreme cold-weather training in Lithuania as part of a multinational NATO mission aimed at reassuring the local population and deterring Russia, NOS reports. The exercises, taking place near Rukla, involve waking up to fresh snow, building shelters from pine branches and tarps, and enduring temperatures that can drop to minus 30 degrees at night.
Marines training in polar regions learn to cross frozen lakes, recognize avalanche dangers, and fight under severe winter conditions. “Think about skiing while shooting, and also how to use snow and ice to create bulletproof elements,” retired brigade general Mac Mootry told NOS. The Marine Corps has trained in extreme cold since the 1970s and maintains extensive Arctic survival experience.
The troops, largely from the 43rd Mechanized Brigade based in Havelte, are part of a contingent of approximately 270 Dutch personnel stationed in Lithuania. Germany is leading the mission, with contributions from Norway, Belgium, and other NATO allies.
“You are constantly working to keep yourself warm. It’s not always super comfortable, but it has its own appeal,” machine gunner Bas told NOS.
The exercises include navigating through marshes and frozen lakes, constructing improvised shelters, and making fire. “If you don’t do it correctly,” said company commander Stef, “you risk serious injuries, like hypothermia or frostbitten toes and fingers. If that happens, you’re out and must be evacuated.” Such incidents occasionally occur during the drills.
The training also includes immersion in icy water. Bas, standing at the edge of a frozen hole in the ice, was instructed by Casper, who oversees the exercise, to tie a rope around his waist, hold ski poles, and jump in. “We train this because in real situations, there is no doctor nearby. You must be able to warm up and survive on your own,” Casper explained.
Retired Brigade General Jeff Mac Mootry, a former commander of the Netherlands Marine Corps, stressed the importance of cold-weather skills. “Not all parts of the armed forces need to operate in extreme winter conditions, but all units should have basic knowledge,” he told NOS. “Both Hitler and Napoleon struggled with winter conditions in Russia. You can lose a war if you are unprepared."
