- For the use of this rank in other countries, see Lieutenant colonel.
Oberstleutnant (Template:IPA-de) is a German Army and German Air Force rank equal to lieutenant colonel, above Major, and below Oberst.
 (Heer / Luftwaffe) | |||
| |||
| Rank insignia | German officer rank | ||
| Introduction | 1956 | ||
| Rank group | Commissioned officers | ||
| Army / Air Force | Oberstleutnant | ||
| Navy | Fregattenkapitän | ||
| NATO equivalent |
OF-4 | ||
| Army | Lieutenant colonel | ||
| Air force | Wing commander | ||
| Navy | Commander | ||
- See also
⇒ Article: Ranks of the German Bundeswehr
⇒ Article: Rank insignia of the German Bundeswehr
There are two paygrades associated to the rank of Oberstleutnant. Paygrade A14 is the standard level paygrade whereas A15 is assigned to senior Oberstleutnant personnel.
Oberstleutnant of the General Staff or Reserve have the words "im Generalstabsdienst" (i.G.), "der Reserve" (d.R.) after their rank—thus: "OTL i.G.", "OTL d.R."
Oberstleutnant who are definitely retired are described as "außer Dienst" (a.D.)
During World War II, the SS maintained an equivalent rank known as Obersturmbannführer.
Rank insignia
On the shoulder straps (Heer, Luftwaffe) there are two silver pips (stars) in silver oak leaves.
| Heer | Luftwaffe |
|---|---|
|
|
| junior Rank Major (Germany) |
 
(German officer rank) |
senior Rank Oberst |
See also
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