21st Panzer Brigade (Bundeswehr)

The 21st Panzer Brigade "Lipperland" is a mechanized brigade of the German Army (Bundeswehr). Subordinate to the 1st Panzer Division, the brigade is stationed primarily in Augustdorf, North Rhine-Westphalia.

The brigade's history traces back to the reorganization of the Bundeswehr following its establishment. It was officially formed in 1956 as Panzerkampfgruppe A6, later becoming Panzerbrigade 21 in 1959. The brigade's name "Lipperland" refers to the Lippe region in which Augustdorf is located, reflecting a connection to the local area.

The 21st Panzer Brigade is equipped with modern main battle tanks (primarily Leopard 2 models), infantry fighting vehicles, and other armored vehicles. Its primary mission is to conduct mechanized operations as part of a larger division, participating in both national defense and international missions as mandated by the German government.

The brigade has participated in numerous national and international exercises, strengthening its interoperability with other NATO forces. Its personnel have also been deployed in support of peacekeeping and humanitarian aid operations.

Organizationally, the 21st Panzer Brigade typically includes a headquarters company, a tank battalion, a mechanized infantry battalion, an artillery battalion, an engineer company, and a supply battalion. The specific composition and equipment of the brigade may vary depending on the current Bundeswehr structure and mission requirements.