Camilla Jessen
With growing fears of conflict in Europe, German ports say they’re unprepared for their role in a military emergency.
As fears of war grow, Germany’s port operators say they’re not ready for a military crisis and they want Berlin to act fast.
Ports Raise the Alarm
Germany’s largest seaports are urging the federal government to pour billions into upgrading infrastructure they say is essential for national and NATO defense.
In a letter sent to Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, the Central Association of German Seaport Operators (ZDS) warns that German ports are unprepared for the demands of a possible military emergency.
Though no figure was mentioned in the letter, industry leaders estimate that at least €3 billion is needed for immediate upgrades.
“We’re Not Ready”
“In an emergency, military equipment and personnel would have to be transported through these ports,” the group stressed.
ZDS, which represents over 150 companies, is pushing for funds from Germany’s regular defense budget, emphasizing that ports are frontline targets in the event of war and must be treated accordingly.
Infrastructure Strain
The port operators argue that Germany’s seaports, including Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Wilhelmshaven, and Rostock, are vital for moving Bundeswehr and NATO equipment in case of conflict.
However, current infrastructure is built for commercial trade, not wartime logistics.
Military Needs vs. Civilian Limitations
They are calling for “dual-use” upgrades, meaning investments that serve both military and civilian functions. This would include:
- Reinforced cargo terminals
- Improved quay walls
- Stronger rail and road connections
- Cybersecurity and anti-sabotage protection
The ZDS says the entire sector faces an investment gap of €15 billion, though the €3 billion request is seen as an immediate priority for defense readiness.
Follow NATO’s Lead, Ports Say
Germany has already committed €8 billion to upgrading roads and railways for military transport as part of a “military core network.”
But ZDS argues that ports must now receive the same priority, noting that maritime entry points are just as essential to NATO operations as road and rail. Without modernized ports, the alliance’s rapid deployment plans could face serious delays.
“We are not just cargo terminals—we are strategic infrastructure,” the association stressed.
Europe’s Ports Under Pressure
Earlier this year, Rotterdam, the continent’s largest port, began reserving space for NATO ships and shifting some civilian facilities to military logistics use amid rising concerns over a future war with Russia.
Experts warn that in the event of a conflict, ports would be prime targets for cyberattacks, missile strikes, or sabotage attempts aimed at paralyzing NATO’s supply lines.
Yet many of these ports are still structured and operated solely for peace-time trade.
Berlin Faces Growing Defense Demands
As Berlin ramps up military spending in response to the war in Ukraine and pressure from allies, demand for defense-related infrastructure funding is piling up.
The request from ZDS puts more pressure on the Bundeswehr’s defense budget, which has already been stretched by weapons deliveries, personnel costs, and network improvements.
