Day of the German Armed Forces Faßberg 2026 — 75 Years Berlin Airlift

Major Bundeswehr Event with Historical Significance

The 2026 Day of the German Armed Forces is a nationwide event taking place at ten locations. Faßberg Air Base has been selected as one of the central locations for 2026 — and for good reason: 2026 marks the 75th anniversary of the end of the Berlin Airlift (1948/49), in which Faßberg played a crucial role. Tens of thousands of supply flights by the Royal Air Force departed from here to the blockaded West Berlin.

Faßberg and the Berlin Airlift

Faßberg Air Base was built in 1933/1934 and used by the British Royal Air Force in 1948 for Operation Plainfare during the Berlin Airlift. Primarily coal was flown to Berlin from Faßberg. Over 13,000 flights took off from here — a supreme logistical achievement that is still considered a global symbol of humanitarian solidarity today. The central Platz der Luftbrücke (Airlift Square) in Faßberg commemorates this history.

Tens of Thousands of Visitors Expected

Local authorities and the Bundeswehr anticipate tens of thousands of visitors — necessitating extensive efforts in logistics, traffic management, and security. The event will feature flight displays, static exhibitions of current Bundeswehr technology, historical reenactments related to the airlift, a family program, and catering services. The focus is on interaction with soldiers of the Bundeswehr and commemorating the 1948/49 airlift.

Nationwide Format at Ten Locations

The Day of the German Armed Forces has been held annually since 2015 — serving as an "Open House" for the Bundeswehr to the public. In 2026, a particularly comprehensive format is planned with 10 selected locations. Faßberg stands out due to its historical connection to the airlift and is expected to be one of the most visited sites.