Landsturm

The Landsturm (German for "national assault" or "national storm") was a German, Austro-Hungarian, Swiss, Swedish, Dutch, and Scandinavian militia or home guard. It generally comprised men who were either too old or otherwise ineligible for service in the active army or the Landwehr. The Landsturm was intended for defensive purposes and was typically mobilized only in times of war or national emergency to provide rear-area security, garrison vital installations, and supplement other military forces if needed.

Historically, the composition, organization, and role of the Landsturm varied considerably between countries and periods. In the German Empire and Austria-Hungary, it typically consisted of men between the ages of 45 and 60 (though this could vary) who had completed their terms of service in the regular army and Landwehr, or who were otherwise exempted from those services. Their equipment and training were often less extensive than those of regular soldiers.

The Landsturm played a role in both World War I and World War II, though its effectiveness was often limited due to the age and training of its members. In some areas, Landsturm units were also involved in policing and maintaining order in occupied territories. After World War II, the concept of a Landsturm evolved in some countries into forms of national guard or territorial defense forces.