At the Maritime Convention in Berlin, the Inspector of the Navy, Vice Admiral Jan Christian Kaack, presented the annual report of the Naval Command, which was published on 8 November.
"The Russian war of aggression in February of this year provided a clear example of the vulnerability of our basic understanding of security policy, but also of the free sea lanes," said Kaack on the defining topic of 2022.
The regional conflict has global consequences. Grain from Ukraine that does not reach its destination due to a lack of transport options, a lack of food in Germany or a shortage of fuel reserves. The effects can be felt by everyone.
For Germany in particular, as an industrialised and trading nation, the unrestricted usability of global sea routes has always been of existential importance. The reliable import of raw materials and the secure export of goods guarantee the functionality of the economy and thus of society.
Vice Admiral Kaack commented: "To ensure the freedom and security of global sea routes, our navy is deployed day and night around the world. At the same time, we are also ready to defend our country and our allies against all aggressors."
The special fund and the announced permanent increase in defence investment are of great importance for creating the necessary framework conditions for the Bundeswehr.
The figures, data and facts in this report vividly illustrate why the sea is of crucial importance to all our lives. This year's report is once again intended to provide information, illustrate connections and make it clear why our country has no choice but to protect its maritime interests.
Source: PIZ Marine
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Many thanks to the naval command as publisher and the "Hamburger" as author of the annual report. May this report end up on the desk of Minister Habeck's office manager and be read thoroughly.