Germany’s security is based on the ability of society and the state to respond cohesively to threats. The Operations Plan Germany (OPLAN DEU) was developed to make exactly this possible: a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach to protecting the country during crises and conflicts.

Its goal is clearly formulated:
“Germany. Together. Defend.”

OPLAN DEU is a comprehensive concept that integrates all levels of the state - federal government, federal states, municipalities, the private sector, and organizations such as police and fire services. Since March 2023, the plan has been continuously developed under the leadership of the Bundeswehr’s Territorial Command. Military experts and civilian partners work closely together on its evolution.

The result is a plan that links national and alliance defense inside Germany with necessary civilian support services. Whether homeland security, protection of critical infrastructure, or transport of allied forces - OPLAN DEU covers all central tasks.

What Makes OPLAN DEU Special?

1. National and Alliance Defense

The Bundeswehr ensures that troops and equipment can be rapidly transported across Germany to NATO’s eastern flank. Because of its geographic position, Germany plays a special role as NATO’s central logistics hub.

Transport routes, bridges, and rest areas are recorded in the plan and secured if necessary. During a major NATO exercise in 2023, primary transport corridors were coordinated in advance to avoid bottlenecks and minimize disruption to civilian traffic. Such scenarios are part of ongoing preparation.

2. Protection of Critical Infrastructure

OPLAN DEU aims to counter hybrid threats such as cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns, and sabotage against energy or communications systems.

A national situation center is intended to detect and counter threats in real time. Using modern technologies such as artificial intelligence and data-driven analysis, risks can be identified early and addressed in a coordinated manner.

3. Civil-Military Cooperation

In a defense scenario, the Bundeswehr depends on civilian support. OPLAN DEU shows how the capabilities of the federal government, states, municipalities, and private industry are effectively pooled.

Private security companies also play an increasing role. They may be tasked with guarding infrastructure and performing protection duties, while data sharing is clearly regulated and compliant with data protection law.

Response to the Threat Environment

The development of OPLAN DEU is a direct response to the deteriorating security situation in Europe.

The plan provides the planning framework to protect Germany’s population while complying with constitutional law. It ensures that once a political decision is taken, measures can be implemented quickly and in a coordinated manner.

The Bundeswehr and civilian partners work hand in hand to safeguard Germany’s territorial integrity.

How Does OPLAN DEU Affect Citizens?

In everyday life, OPLAN DEU is largely invisible.

In a crisis, however, restrictions could occur - for example, if roads or railways are used for military transports. Securing digital infrastructure may also affect companies and private individuals.

A central component of the plan is public awareness of crisis preparedness and resilience. Information platforms are intended to give citizens rapid orientation in emergencies and strengthen their ability to act.

OPLAN DEU ensures that such measures run as smoothly and in as coordinated a way as possible.

More Than a Document

OPLAN DEU is more than a written plan.

It symbolizes the cohesion of state, society, and the economy in an uncertain world. Only through this cooperation can today’s security challenges be mastered.

For all of us, it means:

Security through planning and collective action.

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