Germany preps for large-scale conflict with Russia: medical support and wounded capacity in focus
In the face of escalating threats from Russia and growing concerns over potential large-scale military confrontation, the German armed forces are meticulously preparing for a scenario that could result in significant battlefield casualties.
According to Reuters, in case of a full-scale conflict between NATO and Russia, the German healthcare system must be capable of providing urgent medical assistance to approximately one thousand wounded soldiers each day.
This figure considers the evolving nature of modern warfare, heavily influenced by drone attacks, explosions, and burns caused by cutting-edge weaponry.
Germany’s Chief Surgeon, Ralf Hoffmann, emphasizes that the number of wounded will depend on the intensity of hostilities and the involved military units.
Furthermore, all European armies, including the German medical services, have ramped up their readiness since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
Lessons learned from this conflict have led to the implementation of new standards and protocols for treating injuries, which now include trauma from drone strikes and explosive devices.
The rapid evacuation of wounded soldiers from the battlefield to hospitals across Europe is a top priority, with plans to utilize medical trains and additional air transport resources.
Hoffmann notes that initially soldiers will receive stabilization care at the front, followed by swift transportation to Germany, where civilian hospitals will provide main treatment.
The network of hospital beds will need to expand over the coming years, with an estimated requirement of around 15,000 medical personnel to meet future demands.
Experts predict that by 2029, when Russia may have renewed its military capabilities for another offensive, Germany’s armed forces must be fully modernized and reequipped to withstand potential aggression, emphasizing the importance of strategic readiness and resilience.