At the end of September, the
German Armed Forces
operated a Convoy Support Center (CSC) at the Uckermark Barracks in Prenzlau for the first time. As part of the Host Nation Support (HNS) program
Dutch troops used the
used the site at the end of September as a rest and supply point during the ongoing
NATO
-exercise “Falcon Autumn 2025”.
A Convoy Support Center is a temporary military rest area along marching routes that provides convoys with fuel, food, accommodation and technical assistance. In addition to food and accommodation, these centers are designed to ensure the repair and refueling of vehicles and thus support the smooth running of military movements and NATO deployments.
Hub in Mecklenburg
Its geographical location makes Prenzlau an ideal rest and supply point for marching columns traveling from west to east or in the opposite direction. “Due to its location, the Uckermark barracks is ideal for a hub,” explained Lieutenant Colonel Carsten D., Deputy Commander of the 610 Telecommunications Battalion and Head of Operations in Prenzlau. “We have shown here for the first time under real conditions that we can reliably provide logistical support for our alliance partners.”
Heritage protection secures the site
While the CSC was organized by the 610 Telecommunications Battalion, forces from the 4th Homeland Security Regiment were responsible for securing the site. The 4th company from Kramerhof/Parow (Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania) and the 7th company from Hamburg were deployed. Around 35 reservists secured the area against possible threats or spying with patrols, alert positions and continuous observation.
“Our task is to create the framework conditions for smooth operations,” said Lieutenant Colonel Carsten D. “This means that we protect our partner forces while they are recovering, refueling or regrouping here.”
Intensive preparation of the reservists
The deployed soldiers underwent intensive preparation in the days leading up to the deployment. This included shooting training, theoretical lessons and practical training as well as being equipped with protective equipment and additional material for night operations. In the field, the homeland security forces were accommodated in tents, each with space for six people.
Many reservists decided to wear the uniform not despite, but because of the current security situation. “The security situation has changed since the
International cooperation visibly lived
The first Dutch marching units arrived in Prenzlau at around 8.00 am. Around 20 trucks and small vehicles passed through the barracks gate and were directed to prepared parking areas. Over the course of the weekend and the following days, further units will follow – more than 320 vehicles in total.
The Dutch flag was hoisted at the supply point as a sign of friendship and partnership. An important symbol for Lieutenant Colonel Carsten D.: “It’s not just about logistics. It’s about showing our partners: You are welcome here and you can count on us.”
Conclusion: operational readiness demonstrated
The conclusion of all those involved is clear: The first real Convoy Support Center in Prenzlau was a success. The cooperation between active forces and reservists ran smoothly, the processes worked well and international cooperation could be experienced in practice.
“We weren’t practising in a simulation game here, but acting under real conditions,” summarized Lieutenant Colonel Jörg M.-B. and Major Jan-Friedrich H. – company commanders of the deployed homeland security forces. “The result is clear: Homeland Security is ready for action.”
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for more news about the Dutch armed forces and
here
to further reports on the Bundeswehr.
