Germany is laying the groundwork for a robust logistics operation to support the deployment of US troops, should they be required to move to NATO’s eastern front. Amid growing concerns over potential conflict escalation in Eastern Europe, Bundeswehr Lt Gen André Bodemann revealed in an interview with FAZ that Germany is actively preparing for the demands of war readiness, with a significant focus on civil defense.
The Bundeswehr’s plans, though mostly confidential, include strategies for provisioning American soldiers and refueling their armored vehicles en route to potential hotspots. “If, for example, a US division moved towards the east, thousands of tanks, thousands of soldiers, then they would need to be fed and the tanks refueled or possibly repaired,” Lt Gen Bodemann disclosed. He emphasized the role of civilian services in such scenarios, where “the convoy would get fuel from petrol stations or civilian vehicles, the Red Cross would provide medical care and food would come from a civilian caterer.”
This development aligns with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s call for European nations to increase defense spending to solidify US’s commitment to NATO. Germany’s push to achieve “kriegstüchtigteit” – a state of being war-ready – is a response to the possibility of Russia intensifying its military campaign, potentially threatening NATO’s eastern flank.
Furthermore, the US has initiated ammunition deliveries to Ukraine via Germany and Poland, following Washington’s approval of a substantial aid package to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict. The Pentagon’s strategy includes using Germany’s infrastructure as a key logistics center to facilitate the transfer of military aid.
Former commander-in-chief of the US land forces for Europe, Ben Hodges, spoke to DW about the operation, underscoring the effectiveness of “decentralized logistics” which Ukraine has adopted to safeguard armament deliveries from Russian air attacks. The strategic use of Germany’s geography and infrastructure, including the significant US military presence in the country, has been crucial in this context.
With the US gearing up to provide ATACMS artillery shells with an extended range to Ukraine, the role of Germany as a logistical hub becomes even more pivotal. These munitions are intended to allow Ukraine to more effectively target Russian command structures and supply lines, according to Hodges.
The situation underscores Germany’s evolving role in international security dynamics and NATO’s operational planning. The Bundeswehr’s preparation for the logistical needs of US forces and the ongoing support of Ukraine through arms deliveries represent a proactive stance in an increasingly unpredictable global security landscape.
It comes after Gen Carsten Breuer, the head of the German armed forces, told The Telegraph he had “no doubt” Germany could repel a Russian assault on the eastern flank.
“Rather, in my role as the chief of defence, it is the paramount importance of achieving the readiness of Germany’s armed forces within the next five years. We call this kriegstüchtigkeit – being ready, capable and willing to fight. We are on the right track,” Gen Breuer said in an interview in February.
Relevant articles:
– German army prepares plan to ready US troops to fight on Nato’s eastern front, telegraph.co.uk, 04/25/2024
– US to send weapons to Ukraine via Germany, Poland – DW – 04, DW (English), Wed, 24 Apr 2024 18:18:05 GMT