A lot of space for training and exercises – one purpose, and yet so many differences: The only place to practice naval ship-to-shore operations is Putlos, for example, and there are only few ecological demolition areas in Germany. But there is the right training area for almost every exercise aim.
On Bundeswehr training areas, the Bundeswehr and allied armed forces grow into combat-capable troops. The capabilities and procedures consolidated here form the basis of military deterrence. Also, these training areas are large nature conservation areas, and they serve as long-halt areas for military convoys in Germany.
If several thousand servicemen and women are to exercise with heavy equipment and in the land, air and maritime domains in a very confined space at the same time, special areas are required. For this purpose, there are 20 training areas in Germany, from Nordhorn in the west to Oberlausitz in the east, Putlos in the north, and Heuberg in the south. The training areas are organised under three area headquarters, which are in charge of the training areas located in the regions north, south, and east.
When not used for firing operations and training exercises, the training areas can also be used as rest areas. If German or allied armed forces move through Germany due to its central location in Europe, or if capacities within barracks are exhausted, training areas are a possible site for safely parking large quantities of vehicles. At the same time, the training areas offer space for flexibly adding accommodations. This way, civilian infrastructure is not overburdened and the required security measures for military convoys are easier to implement.
For the most part free of human habitation, training areas also provide a safe haven for nature and the environment. Specialist personnel of the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Infrastructure, Environmental Protection and Services (Bundesamt für Infrastruktur, Umweltschutz und Dienstleistungen der Bundeswehr – BAIUDBwBundesamt für Infrastruktur, Umweltschutz und Dienstleistungen der Bundeswehr), the Bundeswehr service centres, and the training area headquarters on site ensure compliance with all provisions. And there is a good reason why: More than half of the territories are designated as conservation areas, either fauna and flora habitats or bird sanctuaries.