On December 4, 2015, citing the expanding threat from Daesh toward both regional and international states, the German parliament voted to authorize the deployment of German forces to combat the extremist organization. The authorization did not clear German forces for combat missions, but rather provided for small forces to assist other coalition partners, especially France.
legality and authorization
Military deployment under German law is difficult. After World War II, the victorious Allied powers forced Germany to adapt a pacifist foreign policy stance, which has continued past German reunification and into the modern day. While there are certainly some Germans who wish to see their nation take on a more active, militant role in the world, the majority prefer peace. Initially authorized in 2015 and renewed in 2016, the mission will continue until at least December 31st, 2017.
Frigate Augsburg escorting French carrier Charles de Gaulle
mission and role
Initially Germany deployed the Bremen-class frigate Augsburg to the Mediterranean to escort the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle. Augsburg was tasked with protecting and defending the aircraft carrier primarily from undersea threats, but also from surface and aerial threats. Aboard Augsburg were two Westland Sea Lynx helicopters for anti-submarine patrol and search-and-rescue purposes.
The Luftwaffe also deployed assets in the form of six Panavia Tornado ECRs for reconnaissance missions, equipped with Recce Lite reconnaissance pods for target acquisition and post-strike analysis. In addition to the Tornadoes, an Airbus A310-304 MRTT aerial refueling tanker was also deployed, and was utilized to refuel a wide variety of Coalition aircraft. Despite Germany’s non-combat role, their contribution to the Coalition is appreciated and necessary.
forces deployed
german navy
- Augsburg (F213) | Bremen-class Frigate
- (2) Westland Sea Lynx | Anti-submarine/Search-and-Rescue Helicopter
german air force
- (1) Airbus A310-304 MRTT | Aerial Refueling Tanker
- (6) Panavia Tornado ECR | Reconnaissance Aircraft
Airbus A310-304 MRTT
