Germany has created the first territorial defense forces division (Heimatschutzdivision), which will consist of 6000 soldiers.

This was reported by the Federal Ministry of Defense of Germany.

The announcement was made by Army Commander Alfons Meiss on March 14 at a ceremonial formation at the Julius Leber Barracks in Berlin.

At the same time, it was announced that from April 1, 2025, the German Army will take command of the Territorial Defense Forces, which are currently under the command of a separate Territorial Command.

In peacetime, the new division will be tasked with protecting critical infrastructure such as ports, railroad facilities, pipelines, roads, bridges, etc. It will also facilitate the transfer of troops and help in case of emergencies and natural disasters. However, if necessary, territorial defense will also be used to counter military threats and deter potential attackers.

“This solemn address is an important signal for the defense of our homeland. With the decision to subordinate the Internal Security Forces to the army, they will be managed centrally for the first time. I am convinced that they are in good hands in the army,” said Lieutenant General Andreas Hoppe, Deputy Inspector General of the German Army, in his speech.

The Territorial Defense Division has become the fourth division of the Land Forces and is under the command of Major General Andreas Henne.

According to Deutsche Welle, the plan to create a terrorist defense division is based on the assumption that the other three divisions of the Army could be redeployed to NATO’s eastern flank. For example, to Poland, Lithuania or Estonia, to deter or repel military aggression. In that case, Germany would need reliable rear defense.

Currently, the Territorial Defense Forces are represented in all 16 federal states in the form of separate companies organized into five regiments (Heimatschutzregiment). They are staffed exclusively by reservists under the direction of commanders in specific regions. In October 2025, it is planned to form a sixth regiment, which will be stationed in Berlin.

Starting in January 2025, the German Territorial Defense Forces began to conduct a basic military training course on their own.

Previously, the recruits underwent three months of basic training in other units and branches of the Bundeswehr, after which they arrived for coordination in the territorial defense unit.

The three-month training program includes handling and firing handguns, working with explosive devices, and terrain orienteering. They also received training in the protection of premises and facilities, as well as work at checkpoints.