“We are ready – even in the ­operational area”

Paul Walf, CEO of Rheinmetall Project Solutions GmbH, talks to DIMENSIONS about mobile field camps, the cooperation with the Bundeswehr, and his ­company’s role in the Operational Plan for Germany.

Mr Walf, in February of 2025, Rheinmetall Project Solutions signed a framework contract with the Bundeswehr for logistical services relating to troop deployments. With this major contract, you are the first industrial partner to take on tasks as part of the Operational Plan for Germany. What are these tasks?

As a contractual partner of the Bundeswehr, we are responsible for setting up and operating field camps in designated operational areas. Specifically, this involves providing logistical support for the deployment of forces through, within, and out of Germany. We set up holding and assembly areas – known as Convoy Support Centres (CSCs) and marshalling areas – for the Bundeswehr and for allied forces from NATO, the United Nations, the EU, and the Partnership for Peace countries. The contract covers both training operations in peacetime and, for the first time, operations in the context of national and alliance defence.

There are many logistics service providers. What does Rheinmetall Project Solutions offer that others do not?
We see ourselves as a full-service partner for the Bundeswehr and allied forces in the areas of infrastructure, medical facilities, and explosive ordnance disposal. Our self-conception is this: whatever services the customer requires, we are ready – even in an operational area. One of our key advantages is the extensive experience we have gained from the Bundeswehr’s overseas deployments. We have set up numerous field camps, and know about the specific requirements.

What can troops on the move expect at the temporary Convoy Support Centres?
The camp is fully equipped and can accommodate up to 500 soldiers. It has 48 showers, a field kitchen offering a choice of meals, and five vehicle refuelling points. The fence-enclosed site is protected by a private security service. We also monitor the area within a 20-kilometre radius using drones.

How long does it take you to set up such a mobile barrack?
It depends on the situation. For planned training exercises by the Bundeswehr, we are given sufficient time in advance. In the event of national or alliance defence, we can set up field camps at pre-surveyed sites very quickly. Full operational capability can be reached within a few days.

How many field camps can you operate simultaneously in case of an emergency?
We can set up and operate at least ten Convoy Support Centres and three marshalling areas at the same time. Our partner companies provide the necessary equipment and personnel. Experienced teams from Rheinmetall Project Solutions handle on-site coordination and management. These employees are highly skilled in military logistics processes and can be redeployed from our daily business at short notice in the event of a national or alliance emergency.

The Bundeswehr tested the concept for the first time during the Quadriga 2025 exercise. What lessons did you learn?
We consistently receive very positive feedback from the participating soldiers. Following each exercise, we hold joint workshops with the client to identify areas for improvement ahead of the next deployment. As part of its training operations, the Bundeswehr must call off services under the framework agreement at least three times a year. Currently, coordination is handled by the Bundeswehr Operational Command. In the future, however, this responsibility will lie with the Army’s Land Component Command. Overall, our cooperation with the Bundeswehr is characterised by a high degree of trust and mutual professionalism.