Ranks of the National People's Army

This article comprises the Ranks and rank insignias of the National People's Army (NPA), that was the Army of the German Democratic Republic (GDR) from 1956 to 1990.

Design
The design of the rank insignias followed, with some modifications, the tradition of the German Wehrmacht. For example the cuff titles (chevron insignias) of the Gefreiter where replaced by cross-strips on the shoulder straps.

Shoulder straps, tucks and sleeve insignias
The shoulder straps of the lieutenant and captain ranks where made from silver satin string (de: Silberplattschnur). The Unterleutnant was characterized by one golden CO star, the Leutnant by two rank stars (side by side), and the Oberleutnant by tree stars, triangular mounted. Pertaining to Hauptmann there was an additional star above the triangular formation.

Staff officers where characterize by twisted silver shoulder straps, with one star for Major, two stars for Oberstleutnant, and three stars for Oberst.

Ground forces, Air force, and Border troops
Remark: The different colours characterize several corps colours in relation to the appropriate service, branch, branch of service, or special troop.

⇒ see main article Corps colours (NPA)