Wilhelmshaven: Marine recruits start a new era of training!

Wilhelmshaven: Marine recruits start a new era of training!

Since October 2025, basic training for recruits has been carried out again at the Heppenser Groden naval base in Wilhelmshaven. For the first time in decades, the Bundeswehr has made this decision because the location was not previously responsible for military training. Interest in training in the navy has noticeably increased, which is the reason for the return to Wilhelmshaven. In the first few weeks, 90 young soldiers took on the new challenge and reported on their positive experiences and the spirit of camaraderie NWZonline documented.

Lieutenant Captain Niels Schildwächter, the head of the training and protection company, is enthusiastic about the recruits' motivation. They often already have prior knowledge, which enriches the training considerably. During the twelve-week basic training, basic military tasks as well as the rights and duties of a soldier are taught. The training includes not only theoretical knowledge, but also practical skills such as shooting, internal leadership and physical fitness.

Focus on rescue exercises

A central element of the training are the rescue exercises, in which the recruits are trained in the use of marine life jackets and cold protection suits. Through practical exercises in the rescue training hall, they learn how to react correctly in emergencies. So far, all 89 recruits have mastered the training throughout, which speaks for the high level of motivation and support, both from each other and from the trainers.

The overall design of the basic training also incorporates knowledge gained from current conflicts, such as Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine. Among other things, the operation of drones is integrated into the curricula in order to optimally prepare recruits for modern challenges Soldier and technology reported.

A look into the future

The Bundeswehr continues to modernize its basic training programs. The aim is to increase the volume of personnel, which not only helps ensure a high level of operational readiness, but also ensures the own security of Germany and its allies. In the next few years, the active force and the reserve are expected to grow to around 200,000 soldiers. The newly designed basic training is designed to offer recruits exciting and challenging training content.

Apart from the practical exercises, the formal service, which is particularly important until the vow on November 13th, is also intensively practiced. This is intended to make the recruits leave a good impression, because the Bundeswehr has a great interest in creating the right incentives and establishing a fresh recruiting program that is geared towards flexibility and modern requirements.