Germany highlights AI and uncrewed systems in mistakenly released naval force structure plans
The German Navy ship Brandenburg participates in Exercise Steadfast Defender 2021. (Photo: US DoD)
On March 5, the German Armed Forces published and later deleted a 'Force Structure Goals 2035+' on its website, offering glimpses into Berlin's naval planning.
In a now-deleted web post, the Bundeswehr detailed how the German Navy must prepare for future conflicts, describing the shape of its fleet and a need for large numbers of uncrewed systems.
The Bundeswehr wrote: 'The navy must become fit for the future of naval warfare. It requires a large number of unmanned systems and requires artificial intelligence, in particular for situational awareness and analysis.
'In order for this to become a reality, two things are important: 1. The path to the future of the naval forces must be sustainably financed. 2. It is already important to test the use
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology]()
DSEI 2025: Red Cat expands into USV production with focus on combat-proven technology
At DSEI 2025, Red Cat outlines its expansion from UAVs into uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), positioning itself as a multi-domain defence provider spanning land, sea, and air.
-
![Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract]()
Anduril Australia wins A$1.7 billion Ghost Shark XL-AUV contract
The vessels are expected to deliver a major boost to Australia’s undersea warfare capabilities, with production set to start immediately.
-
![Royal Canadian Navy will start operating class 2 UAVs in 2028]()
Royal Canadian Navy will start operating class 2 UAVs in 2028
Acquired under Canada’s Department of National Defence ISTAR UAS project, the drones will be deployed from the Halifax-class frigates.
-
![US Navy prepares next step of the F-35 Block 4 upgrade while GAO predicts acquisition delays]()
US Navy prepares next step of the F-35 Block 4 upgrade while GAO predicts acquisition delays
The US Navy published a pre-solicitation notice of intent for the third phase of the F-35 Reprogramming Verification & Validation System. Meanwhile, with a five-year delay in its schedule, GAO foresees more postponements in the completion of the Block 4 effort.
