After months of evaluating different locations, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has announced that the Bundeswehr 's new naval port will be built in Emden, on the North Sea coast of Lower Saxony .

"Emden offers ideal conditions, such as quick access to the Atlantic Ocean and the far north," Pistorius said. He added that a second port is needed to accommodate the growing German Navy : New ships and boats require berths, and additional service members need housing. Furthermore, he said, "this will enhance the deterrence capabilities of both Germany and NATO ."

The commercial port of Emden is the economic heart of East Frisia. Not only does it dominate the cityscape, but it also provides thousands of jobs. Directly adjacent to the port is the large Volkswagen plant, from which cars are exported by ship to destinations around the world. The port also serves as a shipment hub for large components for wind farms in the North Sea.…