Criticism of the austerity course of the predecessors
Pistorius wants to modernize the Bundeswehr infrastructure
09/11/2023, 03:25 am
Defense Minister Pistorius wants to invest “on a large scale” in the Bundeswehr’s infrastructure. As an example, he cites free WiFi in barracks and other facilities. He criticizes the austerity measures of recent years.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius wants to revamp the Bundeswehr barracks and other facilities. “The Bundeswehr has around 1,500 properties that need to be maintained and on which the traces of the austerity measures of the last few years can still be clearly seen. This is our turn and we invest on a large scale every year,” said the SPD politician in Düsseldorf “Rheinische Post” and the Bonn “General-Anzeiger”. Numerous buildings have already been equipped with free WiFi.
Pistorius described billions in investments in the Bundeswehr’s infrastructure as essential for the success of the turning point announced by Chancellor Olaf Scholz. “Right now, as we procure more, and at a faster pace, we also need the space for it,” said Pistorius, referring to the 100 billion euro special fund for better equipment for the Bundeswehr.
“Infrastructure is therefore extremely important. We have to think, for example, of airfields, ammunition depots and port facilities,” said the minister. At the same time, you also have to make sure that you have well-equipped accommodation and office buildings.
Environmental protection makes troops “more resilient”
According to reports, the Defense Minister is visiting the Federal Office for Infrastructure, Environmental Protection and Services of the Bundeswehr in Bonn this Monday. “The Federal Office is not in the front row and is not known to everyone, but it is a central service provider for our armed forces. What is crucial is to ensure the operational readiness of the armed forces – materially and through numerous services.”
Environmental protection and the armed forces are “not necessarily a contradiction in terms,” Pistorius emphasized. “If we act in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner, that makes us more resilient. We strengthen the stamina of the troops.” The Bundeswehr operates its own photovoltaic systems, heat pumps and a geothermal system. She also participates in research into alternative energy sources and fuels. The minister has also planned a visit to the Federal Office for the Military Counterintelligence Service in Cologne for Monday.