German Army

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== German Army ==

The German Army (German: Deutsches Heer ) is the land component of the Bundeswehr, the armed forces of Germany. It was established in 1955 as part of the rearmament of West Germany during the Cold War. The German Army is responsible for land-based military operations and is one of the three main branches of the Bundeswehr, alongside the German Navy and the German Air Force.

History

Formation and Early Years

The German Army was officially established on 12 November 1955, following the end of the Allied occupation of Germany and the country's admission to NATO. The formation of the German Army marked the beginning of West Germany's rearmament and its integration into the Western defense alliance during the Cold War.

Cold War Period

During the Cold War, the German Army played a crucial role in the defense of Western Europe against the threat of the Warsaw Pact. It was heavily integrated into NATO's military structure and participated in numerous joint exercises and operations. The German Army was primarily focused on defending the Inner German Border and maintaining a strong presence in the Federal Republic of Germany.

Post-Cold War and Reunification

Following the end of the Cold War and the reunification of Germany in 1990, the German Army underwent significant restructuring and downsizing. The integration of the National People's Army (NVA) of East Germany into the Bundeswehr was a complex process that involved the demobilization of many former NVA personnel and the modernization of equipment.

21st Century

In the 21st century, the German Army has been involved in various international missions, including peacekeeping operations in the Balkans, Afghanistan, and Mali. The army has also focused on modernizing its equipment and improving its rapid deployment capabilities to respond to emerging security challenges.

Structure

The German Army is organized into several major commands and units, including:

• Army Command
• Rapid Forces Division
• 1st Panzer Division
• 10th Panzer Division
• Division Schnelle Kräfte

The army also includes various support and logistics units, as well as specialized forces such as the Kommando Spezialkräfte (KSK), the German Army's special forces unit.

Equipment

The German Army is equipped with a wide range of modern military hardware, including:

• Leopard 2 main battle tanks
• Puma infantry fighting vehicles
• Boxer armored personnel carriers
• Eurocopter Tiger attack helicopters
• NH90 transport helicopters

The army continues to invest in new technologies and equipment to enhance its operational capabilities.

Training

Training in the German Army is rigorous and comprehensive, covering a wide range of military skills and disciplines. Soldiers undergo basic training followed by specialized training in their respective fields. The German Army also places a strong emphasis on joint and multinational training exercises with NATO allies and other partner nations.

See Also

• Bundeswehr
• German Navy
• German Air Force
• Kommando Spezialkräfte
• Leopard 2
• Puma (IFV)
• Boxer (armoured fighting vehicle)

References

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