The German military began exercises on Thursday in which troops prepare to defend the major port of Hamburg on the Elbe.
The exercises, known as “Red Storm Alpha”, saw about 100 soldiers deployed to set up checkpoints and secure port facilities in the event of a threat, the German military said.
The port authority is also taking part in the manoeuvres, which will last until Saturday. Civilian traffic should continue undisturbed throughout.
NATO countries in Europe have stepped up preparations to defend against an attack since Russia’s large-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Securing the port of Hamburg in northern Germany could be crucial for the rapid deployment of NATO forces in Eastern Europe in the event of further Russian aggression.
“Due to its geostrategic location, Germany has the function of a hub. Therefore, the organization of military transports by rail, road or air, the delivery of food, beds or fuel, or the securing of entire vehicle convoys, must be practiced in order to have a credible deterrent effect,” the German military, known as the Bundeswehr, said in a statement about the exercises.
