NewsBracing for a new era: Bundeswehr unveils bold, comprehensive military reform plan

Bracing for a new era: Bundeswehr unveils bold, comprehensive military reform plan

Germany is preparing its armed forces for war, the "Operationsplan Deutschland" will be implemented.
Germany is preparing its armed forces for war, the "Operationsplan Deutschland" will be implemented.
Images source: © Getty Images | Alexander Koerner

3:29 AM EST, January 26, 2024

Over the next few years, the Bundeswehr is set to evolve into one of the world's most modern armies. The German defense plan indicates that the military will foster collaborations with security agencies, disaster management teams, and industries within the sector.

Introduction of the Operationsplan Deutschland (OPLAN)

OPLAN is a distinctive operational plan which is the first of its kind since the Cold War. The core intent is to modernize the civilian infrastructure's defense capabilities thoroughly.

NATO troops' critical role in the new German defense plan

The OPLAN document, covered by a confidentiality agreement, spans hundreds of pages. However, the general public is only privy to broader assumptions of the plan.

General Andre Bodemann, head of the Territorial Command of the Bundeswehr, quoted by RMF24.pl, stated that the new operational plan must be practical and implemented by March's end. It shouldn't merely be a concept or a pipe dream. It needs to be something tangible, operational, and, above all, effective.

Elements of the German defense plan

The German defense plan doesn't merely revolve around the physical defense of the country's territory. The Bundeswehr's commanders are significantly concerned about the threat of misinformation and fake news.

The focus on cyber security

Cybercrime and cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, energy companies, and telecommunication firms are of great concern. The plan also intends to seriously tackle the issues of espionage and potential sabotage by adversaries.

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