Offiziere

Offizier is the German term for a commissioned military officer. Offiziere are officers who hold a state commission and command troops, plan operations, and contribute to strategy. They stand in contrast to enlisted personnel and non-commissioned officers (Unteroffiziere), who typically have non-commissioned status and different responsibilities.

The word derives from the French officier, itself from the Latin officium, and entered German through early modern borrowings as professional armies formed. From the 17th century onward, the term was established in German-speaking armies, reflecting the emergence of a formal officer corps.

In German-speaking armed forces, aspiring officers undergo specialized training at officer schools or through university programs. They may serve as line officers who command units or as staff officers who handle planning, administration, and logistics. Women may serve as Offizierinnen on equal terms.

Typical career progression starts with Leutnant, followed by Oberleutnant, Hauptmann, Major, Oberstleutnant, and Oberst; senior ranks include Generalmajor, Generalleutnant, and General. Ranks and paths vary by country and service, with branches such as infantry, armor, artillery, and signals providing different specialties.