A wave of repercussions is sweeping through Germany’s airborne troops following a string of deeply troubling incidents involving right-wing extremism and inappropriate sexual conduct within the Fallschirmjägerregiment 26 in Zweibrücken. The situation, revealed by the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ), has prompted a comprehensive review of the entire Luftlandetruppe (Airborne Corps) and raises serious questions about leadership, values and the prevailing culture within the Bundeswehr, Germany’s armed forces.
Multiple investigations, spearheaded by the public prosecutor’s office, military disciplinary lawyers and the Military Intelligence Service (MAD), have been ongoing for months, implicating dozens of individuals. The investigations encompass over 200 separate offenses, echoing previous scandals that severely impacted the Kommando Spezialkräfte (KSK) and led to fundamental structural reforms within that elite unit.
The severity of the allegations has drawn the direct involvement of the Army leadership and the Inspector General of the Bundeswehr, General Carsten Breuer, who are awaiting a forthcoming report from Field Army Commander, Lieutenant General Harald Gante. This report is expected to inform an “Action Plan for the Airborne Troops” signalling a potentially radical overhaul of the unit’s operations and ethos.
General Gante, in a candid statement to the FAZ, characterized the circumstances in Zweibrücken as “unacceptable”. He pointed to a combination of poor leadership, a deficient understanding of core values and a “misogynistic troop culture” as deeply problematic factors contributing to the crisis. “When we realized what was happening in Zweibrücken, we were simply speechless” Gante stated, expressing concern not only regarding the incidents themselves but also regarding the inadequate initial responses. He emphasized a commitment to accountability within the Heer, stating, “Poor leadership is not a criminal offense, but it will not be tolerated.
Highlighting a distinct divergence from the perceived values of potential adversaries – specifically referencing Russian military practices – Gante asserted the paramount importance of upholding democratic and ethical principles. “For us” he declared, “value-based commitment must play the decisive role. It’s not enough to be a professional fighter”. He further stressed the responsibility of military leadership to instill these values, warning that failure necessitates swift and decisive action, including personnel separation.
Initial reports concerning the incidents surfaced through channels to the Bundestag’s Military Commissioner, triggering local media coverage. The abrupt replacement of the regiment’s former commander in early October further amplified the gravity of the situation. Bundestag Military Commissioner Henning Otte cautioned against prejudgment and broad condemnation, stating that such occurrences erode public trust in the armed forces and challenge Germany’s foundational democratic principles. However, he acknowledged the need for a thorough, impartial assessment to ensure justice and prevent future occurrences while safeguarding the reputation of the Bundeswehr. The unfolding situation presents a significant challenge to the German government and demands a robust and transparent response to restore public confidence and reaffirm the values underpinning the armed forces.
