The German internal security department protects pipelines and power plants from drones.
Germany is strengthening the protection of its critical infrastructure by deploying a new military unit within the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces). The Heimatschutzdivision (Homeland Security Division) will be responsible for guarding pipelines, power plants, and key transport routes while also intercepting suspicious drones.
The new division was formed in 2025 by merging several Heimatschutzregimenter (home defense regiments). Once fully developed, the unit is expected to include around 6,000 soldiers. Unlike traditional combat troops, these forces will mainly operate inside Germany, focusing on protecting infrastructure and supporting civilian authorities.
The initiative is closely linked to Operationsplan Deutschland (OPLAN DEU), a comprehensive military plan designed to coordinate Germany’s national defense with civilian sectors. According to reports, the plan is based on a classified document of roughly 1,200 pages, created at the Julius-Leber-Kaserne (Julius Leber Barracks) in Berlin and now being implemented with high priority.
German officials say the new division responds to the growing threat of hybrid warfare, which includes sabotage, espionage, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns. Defense Minister بوريس بيستوريوس has previously warned that Germany is “not at war but no longer in complete peace,” highlighting the increasing presence of drone incursions and information warfare.
One of the division’s most important tasks will be drone defense. The Bundeswehr has developed Counter-UAS systems, which use radar, optical cameras, and radio detection to identify drones early. If necessary, electronic countermeasures such as jammers can disrupt communication between drones and their operators.
The Heimatschutzdivision will also protect ports, railways, airports, energy facilities, and military bases, especially when NATO equipment is transported across Germany. The division includes many reservists stationed across the country, allowing rapid response during crises or natural disasters.
Germany’s approach reflects a broader shift in security policy that places greater emphasis on protecting national infrastructure within the country. Similar territorial defense structures already exist in several NATO members, including Poland, which created its own defense forces after Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014.