German general: An attack could hit us in suboptimal state

The German army is making "great progress" towards combat readiness, according to army chief Lieutenant General Alfons Mais.

However, Mais warned that a military stand-off or an attack could occur before the troops have had sufficient time to prepare, in comments to dpa.

"We must be aware that if the alarm goes off, it could hit us in a suboptimal state or at a less than optimal time. The commanders need to prepare mentally for this," said Mais, who is retiring in September.

He stressed that, in addition to equipping the troops, he was concerned with the question of "mindset" - meaning the attitude required for the soldiers to defend their values.

His advice was to turn to the example set by Bundeswehr soldiers who have been awarded the military's Cross of Honour for bravery.

"I believe that our soldiers all know what to expect. And we see that. In conversations with the young people, I see that they have become much more serious," Mais said. "Someone who signs up for the Bundeswehr today knows there is war in Europe."