Oberleutnant

Oberleutnant is a junior officer rank used in German-speaking armed forces. It is commonly translated as First Lieutenant or Senior Lieutenant in English. The rank sits above Leutnant (second lieutenant) and below Hauptmann (captain) in the officer hierarchy. The name combines Ober-, meaning "upper" or "senior," with Leutnant, tracing to the French lieutenant.

Today, Oberleutnant is used in the German Bundeswehr (Germany’s armed forces) and the Austrian Armed Forces, mainly in the Heer (army) and Luftwaffe (air force). In naval service, the corresponding rank is Oberleutnant zur See. Historically, Oberleutnant was used in the Prussian and German Empire armies, through the Wehrmacht and Luftwaffe of the Nazi era, and continues to be used in modern German-speaking forces.

Insignia for Oberleutnant typically feature two pips or stars on shoulder boards or collar patches, depending on period and service. The rank marks distinguish it from Leutnant (one pip) and Hauptmann (three pips or other insignia). In practice, Oberleutnants commonly command platoons or serve as staff officers at company level, and may hold roles as executive officers in smaller units.

Overall, Oberleutnant is a standard step in the development of commissioned officers in German-speaking militaries, reflecting both historical tradition and contemporary organizational structure.