OPLAN DEU is the 1,200-page strategic blueprint transforming Germany into NATO's central logistics hub to deter aggression by 2029.
Executive Summary
Strategic Pivot: OPLAN DEU marks a fundamental shift in Germany's defense posture, transitioning the nation from a frontline state to the central logistical "turntable" for the entire Alliance.
Whole-of-Society: Defense capabilities are no longer "outsourced" to the military alone. The plan integrates civilian agencies, private industry, and logistics firms into a unified war-time structure.
Objective: The primary goal is Deterrence. By demonstrating the capability to rapidly deploy 800,000 troops to the Eastern Flank, Berlin aims to signal to Russia that an attack on NATO territory would be futile.
Mass Mobilization
The plan details the movement of massive Allied forces through Germany to the Eastern Flank. Germany shifts from a frontline state to a transit "turntable."
- >> Scale: Largest since Cold War
- >> Window: 180 Days to deploy
Fig 1. Projected Allied Reinforcements
Fig 2. Infrastructure Investment (€166B Total)
Infrastructure Overhaul
Moving tanks requires robust infrastructure. Berlin is investing €166B by 2029, with a massive focus on "Dual-Use" rail networks that serve both civilian and military needs.
Key Projects:
- Iron Rhine: Reactivating historic rail links.
- A44 Autobahn: Restoring emergency landing strips.
- Bridge Reinforcement: For heavy armor (Leopard 2).
Strategic Timeline
Drafting begins at Julius Leber barracks. The need for a "Cold War" footing is recognized.
2nd Plan Iteration. Exercises like "Red Storm Bravo" test logistics. Major gaps identified.
Intelligence estimates Russia could be capable of and willing to attack NATO territory.
Operational Friction Points
Planners have identified five critical areas where peacetime capabilities fail to meet wartime requirements.
Labor Shortage
70% of truck drivers are non-nationals who may leave.
Sabotage
Unmonitored rail lines & cyber-weak civilian hubs.
Bureaucracy
Peace-time laws restrict convoys and drone defense.
Fig 3. Readiness Gap Analysis
Whole-of-Society Defense
Integrating all sectors into the war plan.
Bundeswehr
Command & Protection
Private Sector
Logistics & Construction
Civil Agencies
Police & Medical