Leutnant

Leutnant is the lowest commissioned officer rank in several German-speaking armed forces. In modern German and Austrian armies, as well as in the Swiss Armed Forces, Leutnant is the entry-level rank for commissioned officers. In naval service, the closest parallel is Leutnant zur See, and in some contexts Leutnant may be used for naval officers at the same level.

A Leutnant is typically a junior officer who has completed officer training and is assigned to lead a small unit, usually a platoon, or to serve in staff duties at a company or battalion level. The position marks the beginning of an officer's career path, with promotion to higher ranks such as Oberleutnant and Hauptmann after several years of service and demonstrated leadership.

In NATO rank terminology, Leutnant corresponds to the rank of Second Lieutenant (OF-1) in many allied forces. The exact insignia and promotion timelines vary by country and service branch, but the role remains that of a novice officer responsible for command, training, and administration within a unit.

Historically, Leutnant has been used since the 18th century in German-speaking armies and remained in use through the German Empire, the Wehrmacht, and into contemporary federations. While the title and duties have evolved, Leutnant remains the standard designation for the first commissioned officer grade in German-speaking militaries.