Two German warships, a frigate and a replenishment vessel, are undertaking a rare voyage through the Indo-Pacific region, underscoring Germany’s commitment to open navigation. Rear Admiral Axel Schulz, commanding the naval task force, emphasized the importance of secure sea lanes for global prosperity, particularly in connecting Southeast Asia with Europe and America.
While the German navy’s presence in the region has raised speculation about a potential transit through the Taiwan Strait, Admiral Schulz declined to confirm the ships’ route, citing operational security concerns. A passage through the strait would be the first by German warships since 2002 and would follow similar actions by the United States and other nations in recent weeks.
China asserts sovereignty over Taiwan, a democratically governed island, and claims jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait, a vital waterway dividing the two entities. Taiwan maintains its independence and insists only its people have the right to decide their future.
Beyond the Taiwan Strait issue, the German deployment aims to demonstrate the country’s commitment to upholding international rules and fostering collaboration with partners and allies. The task force is participating in various military exercises and actively monitoring sanctions on North Korea.
Germany’s engagement in the region has become increasingly significant. Last month, Germany joined the US-led United Nations Command (UNC) in South Korea, which oversees the heavily fortified border with North Korea and is committed to defending the South in the event of a war.
The heightened security tensions are underscored by the recent mutual defense pledge between North Korea and Russia, as well as accusations that Pyongyang has provided weapons used by Russia in the Ukraine conflict. The interconnected nature of regional security is evident, as highlighted by German Ambassador to South Korea Georg Schmidt: “What happens in Russia, Ukraine directly affects South Korea. What happens in North Korea directly affects Germany.”
