The so-called spearhead of the Alliance, which was created during the first major crisis in Ukraine in 2014, this year consists of a ground force of 11,500
The German armed forces lead NATO’s rapid reaction force (VJTF) as of today. For mission needs, Germany is now replacing defective Puma tanks with older Marders.
The so-called spearhead of the Alliance, which was created during the first major crisis in Ukraine in 2014, this year consists of a ground force of 11,500 people. Its special feature is its high level of readiness, as it should be able to mobilize up to 20,000 troops within a few days. The Bundeswehr provides the force with approximately 8,000 men and women. Participating countries include Belgium, the Czech Republic, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway and Slovenia.
The impending takeover of VJTF command drew critical press in December when all 18 Puma tanks that were to be deployed to the mission were found to be defective. Now the Bundeswehr is replacing them – as it must – with much older Marders.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg assured, however, that the lack of equipment of the German armed forces is not a problem for the VJTF. “The Bundeswehr has well-trained and equipped soldiers who can meet the demands very well. Furthermore, Germany will be the leading nation, but the VJTF does not consist exclusively of German forces,” Mr. Stoltenberg said, but at the same time welcomed the federal government’s decision to invest 100 billion euros in defense equipment.
RES-EMP
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