In view of growing security challenges and structural deficits in the military infrastructure, the Bundeswehr is intensifying its cooperation with civilian companies in order to fulfill its role as NATO's logistical hub.
The Bundeswehr has engaged major logistics companies such as Deutsche Bahn, Lufthansa, and Rheinmetall to ensure the deployment of soldiers and military equipment to NATO's eastern border in the event of a crisis. These collaborations are part of Germany's broader efforts to fulfill its commitment as a logistics hub within the alliance.
National Security Strategy and Logistics Commitments
With the adoption of the National Security Strategy 2023, Germany has clearly committed to its role within the North Atlantic Alliance. In a potential crisis scenario, the Federal Republic should be able to guide, supply, and support tens of thousands of allied soldiers across its territory. This requires a powerful infrastructure—and its shortcomings are already evident today.
The Bundeswehr currently does not consider itself capable of meeting the increased demands alone. Deficiencies in roads, railways, and bridges make the deployment of heavy military equipment difficult. Logistical bottlenecks exist, particularly in the east-west direction. NATO's strategic concept, the so-called "New Force Model," envisions the deployment of large troop contingents within a very short time – a goal that seems almost impossible to achieve without civilian support.
Growing dependence on private service providers
The Bundeswehr is already almost entirely dependent on civilian providers for logistical tasks outside of direct crisis zones. This applies not only to road and rail transport, but also to the provision of technical resources and personnel support. The Bundeswehr Operational Command officially confirmed that the military transport of goods and equipment is largely handled by private companies.
Talks with Lufthansa are also discussing the possibility of basic training for fighter jet pilots. The reason for this is the growing demand for flight personnel, which cannot be met by the current capacities of the Bundeswehr. The involvement of civil aviation companies could provide a solution to this problem and simultaneously ensure training standards.
Role of Rheinmetall and Deutsche Bahn
The defense company Rheinmetall has established itself as an important partner of the Bundeswehr in recent years. In addition to supplying defense equipment, the company will likely also be involved in logistical tasks in the future. Deutsche Bahn, in turn, is already in close contact with the Ministry of Defense. Special logistics solutions such as heavy-duty rail transport are intended to ensure that even bulky equipment such as tanks can be deployed quickly.
A further aspect concerns the security of civilian infrastructure. Should the situation escalate, train stations, airports, and energy supply networks would be key targets for potential attacks—not only physically, but especially in the digital space. The Bundeswehr is therefore working with companies operating in the so-called critical infrastructure sector to increase responsiveness and resilience in the event of a crisis.
and 