Instructions to the army, navy, and air force commanders, for the "Schulung" operation (occupation of the Rhineland)

TOP SECRET
S.O.
The Reich Minister of Defence Nr. 1400/35 g.Kdos.L.Chef.
Berlin, 2nd May 1935.
2nd copy
[Note in blue pencil "By hand only"]
To: Chief of Army High Command Chief of Navy High Command Reich Minister for Air
For the operation, suggested in the last Staff Talks of the Armed Forces, I lay down the Code name "Schulung" (Training).
The supreme direction of operation "Schulung" rests with the Reich Minister of Defence as this is a joint undertaking of the three Services.
Preparations for the operation will begin forthwith according to the following directives:
7. General. 1. The operation must, on issue of the code word "Carry Out Schulung", be executed by a surprise blow at lightning speedy
Strictest secrecy is necessary in the preparations and only the very smallest number of officers should be informed and employed in the drafting of reports, drawings etc., and these officers only in person.
2. There is no time for mobilisation of the Forces taking part. These will be employed in their peace-time strength and with their peace-time equipment.
3. The preparation for the operation will be made without
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regard to the present inadequate state of our armaments. Every improvement of the state of our armaments will make possible a greater measure of preparedness and thus result in better prospects of success. .
11. In particular, I request suggestions about the following points:
1. High Command of the Army:
a. How many divisions ready for action and what other suitable troops, including all motorized troops, can be made available for the operation? Basis of calculations:
Restriction to pure defence—if necessary delaying resistance—in the West.
Reinforcement of the necessarily inadequate forces there by the East Prussian divisions which will be transported there immediately by rail or sea.
b. Concentration area or areas and time taken by concentration.
c. Plans for the carrying out of the operation.
2. High Command of the Navy. Safe transport of the East-Prussian troops by sea if transport by land is not possible.
3. Air-Force, a. Support for the attack carried out under "Schulung" by the army.
b. Examination of the possibilities of further assistance to the defence in the West.