German submarine to pay visit to Lithuania

A type 212A U-31 submarine escorted by FGS Oste warship of the German Navy will conduct a friendly visit to the Port of Klaipeda on Wednesday, Lithuania's Ministry of National Defense said.

The ships will be met by LNS Dzukas (P12) patrol ship of the Lithuanian Navy. Both vessels will be moored till September 21.

"The visit of the German U31 submarine to the Port of Klaipėda is a demonstration of the firm bond between Lithuanian and German navies and the staunch unity and solidarity of allies, and it contributes to the NATO deterrence in the region, not on land only but also at sea," Vice Minister Vytautas Umbrasas said in a statement.

During the visit to Klaipeda, the submarine's leadership and an accompanying delegation will meet with the mayor of Klaipeda, the leadership of the Lithuanian Navy leadership, and attend other formal events.

Last visit conducted by a German submarine to Klaipeda took place 18 years ago.