Official announcement from the German government or Bundeswehr

Germany to Launch Territorial Defense Division in April 2025 with 6,000 Personnel

Jan 11, 2025, 11:43 AM

Germany is establishing a new territorial defense division within its military, the Bundeswehr, to address evolving security challenges. This new division, the fourth in the Bundeswehr, will be tasked with protecting critical infrastructure, including ports, railways, pipelines, and digital networks, as well as ensuring the country's readiness to serve as a NATO logistics hub. Scheduled to become operational on April 1, 2025, the division will consist of both active soldiers and reservists under unified command. It is expected to have approximately 6,000 personnel by mid-year, with plans for further expansion. The division's establishment ceremony is set for mid-March. The move aligns with Germany's broader defense restructuring efforts under Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, aimed at bolstering national and alliance defense capabilities amid heightened concerns over potential conflicts involving Russia. The division will also provide support during emergencies such as natural disasters, terrorist attacks, and pandemics. This development is part of the broader "Operation Deutschland" plan to enhance Germany's defense readiness.