Standortentscheidung: Pistorius kündigt Marinehafen in Emden an

Emden, Germany is set to become the future home of a new Bundeswehr Marine base, according to plans outlined by Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and Lower Saxony Premier Olaf Lies. The two officials signed an intent-to-proceed declaration for the construction of the military outpost in the North Frisian port city of Emden. Pistorius emphasized the potential for a billion-euro investment in the project.

The minister expressed his vision for Emden to once again become the location of the German Marine force. Currently, the Marine is the smallest in the history of the Bundeswehr, despite being tasked with the largest and most extensive responsibilities. Pistorius stressed the need for the Marine to grow, which he believes it will.

The minister also highlighted the long-term prospects for up to 2,000 job posts in Emden as a result of the project. Factors in Emden's favor include the availability of large areas of land and its good accessibility to the North Atlantic. Additionally, the minister stressed the importance of having a Marine base in the North Sea, arguing that it would make the Marine more flexible and agile.

A secondary base in the North Sea would make the military unit more reliable in emergencies and enhance its operational capabilities.

Previously, the Marine and the Federal Defense Ministry had explored other potential locations for the base, including Bremerhaven. However, the minister emphasized the need for additional locations due to the planned expansion of the armed forces.