The German Armed Forces plan to expand the use of Ukrainian instructors within Germany following initial training sessions. General-Lieutenant Christian Freuding, the Inspector of the Army, stated in “Welt am Sonntag” that Ukrainian personnel have already been utilized at the Armored Troops School, the Unmanned Systems training and exercise base, and the Pioneer School. He added that they are now reaching the Artillery School and expressed a desire to broaden this support across the entire army. According to Freuding, these first instructors, who possess combat experience, began their deployment at German military schools even before Easter. He emphasized his goal to pair Ukrainian soldiers with practical combat experience with German trainers, allowing them to test tactics, teach, and impart skills together in the field, aiming for a scenario close to real combat conditions.
Freuding also announced plans to adapt the German Armed Forces’ structures to align more closely with the realities of modern warfare involving unmanned systems. This involves equipping the armored troops, both for land and air operations, with unmanned systems. Furthermore, the mechanized infantry will incorporate these systems, and indirect combat capabilities, such as artillery support, will be enhanced. Unmanned systems are also earmarked for increased use in reconnaissance units, logistical support, and casualty evacuation.
Regarding the military situation in Ukraine, where Russia has struggled to achieve significant territorial gains recently, Freuding views the Kremlin as being under pressure. He cited reports from Ukrainian partners indicating over 400 Russian casualties or wounded personnel for every square kilometer of ground gained by Russia. This development, he explained, provides a valuable time advantage. He concluded that whatever the current activities consume and deplete the Russian forces help improve the German Armed Forces’ own deterrence capabilities.
