Bundeswehr’s New Homeland Security Division Prepares for Infrastructure Protection and Allied Troop Deployment
General Major Andreas Henne, the future commander of the Bundeswehr’s new Homeland Security Division, is rapidly preparing his troops for the protection of critical infrastructure and the deployment of Allied forces. He highlights the changing security landscape and ongoing sabotage activities targeting the Bundeswehr within Germany.
Threats from Sabotage and Drones
According to Henne, "classic sabotage forces" pose a significant threat, with evidence suggesting that they are already present in Germany and making preparations. Drones, which have recently been observed with increasing frequency, also pose a security risk and could be used as direct threats, carrying explosives and causing severe damage in the event of a NATO troop deployment.
Historical Perspective and Current Challenges
The Bundeswehr is establishing a fourth Army division for homeland security. Initially, the division will comprise six regiments with approximately 6,000 personnel. However, Henne emphasizes the need for a significantly larger force and a broader presence throughout Germany. This poses a challenge given the recent decline in Bundeswehr personnel.
Henne draws parallels to the Homeland Security Division’s predecessor, noting that during the Cold War, West Germany maintained 45,000 soldiers for territorial defense and 100,000 in the event of war. He advocates for a similar structure, proposing that individuals willing to serve short-term contracts of up to 11 months be directed into Homeland Security.
Changing Strategic Landscape
Since the Cold War, the NATO external border has shifted eastward, and Germany has transitioned from a potential frontline combat zone to a logistical hub for the military.
"Our focus is to enable a timely deployment of NATO forces," states Henne. "This involves protecting critical infrastructure, such as highway bridges, power plants, and server farms with military significance. We will also prioritize infrastructure that serves both civilian and military purposes, allowing us to protect multiple interests simultaneously."
Equipment and Readiness
Preparations are underway at Berlin’s Julius-Leber-Kaserne for the division’s establishment, but equipment remains a concern. Henne emphasizes the need for rifles, communications technology, and connectivity to command centers for situational awareness.
Storing weapons for Homeland Security companies and regiments has been an issue in the past due to their reserve status and lack of infrastructure. The division’s establishment and integration into the Army are expected to improve this situation.
Capabilities and Civilian Collaboration
To effectively fulfill its mission, Homeland Security personnel must be capable of responding quickly and operating jointly in the event of a crisis. Henne emphasizes the "fight tonight" principle, ensuring that equipment and readiness allow for deployment within hours if necessary.
Planning for the initial response to a crisis is also crucial. Henne outlines the need for a clear plan regarding the division’s headquarters, equipment, and ammunition in the event of a declaration of crisis or defense emergency.
Beyond logistics and medical support, the division will require capabilities in countering chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats, as well as drone countermeasures. Henne stresses the importance of collaboration with businesses, particularly in accessing heavy vehicles and construction equipment.
Redefining Soldier Qualifications
Henne questions the traditional emphasis on physical capabilities, such as the 20-kilometer march with 15 kilograms of equipment. He suggests that individuals with alternative skills, such as specialized civilian training, could be valuable assets to the division.
"每个人都有自己独特的能力，几乎每种能力都能对我们有所帮助。"
