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Klaus-Jurgen BaarsMilitary figure of the GDR, lieutenant general.
Date of Birth: 18.08.1934
Country:  Germany |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Military Career in Aviation
- Senior Leadership Roles
- Parliamentary and Reform Roles
- Affiliations
Early Life and Education
Klaus-Jürgen Baars was born into a mechanic's family and became a shipbuilder by profession. On May 23, 1952, he joined the East German People's Police and served at the VP-Dienststelle Pirna. From 1952 to 1953, he underwent special flight training in the Soviet Union.
Military Career in Aviation
Upon completion of his training, Baars returned to East Germany and took command of a squadron at the Cottbus Aero Club from 1953 to 1955. In 1955, he became Deputy Commander for Flight Training of the 1st Aviation Squadron. From 1956 to 1959, he served as Commander of the 1st Aviation Squadron.
From 1959 to 1969, Baars was sent to the Soviet Union to study at a military academy. Upon his return, he served as Deputy Commander of the 3rd Air Division from 1960 to 1965. Subsequently, he commanded the 9th Fighter Squadron from 1965 to 1968.
In 1968, Baars enrolled in the Friedrich Engels National People's Army Military Academy. After graduating in 1971, he became Colonel and Commander of the 31st Fighter-Bomber Squadron "Klement Gottwald," based at Drewitz Airfield.
Senior Leadership Roles
From 1973 to 1978, Baars held various leadership positions within the GDR Air Force/Air Defense Command (LSKLV), including Deputy Head and Head of Combat Training for Fighter Aircraft. On June 1, 1978, he became Deputy Commander for Air Force of the LSKLV, followed by successive promotions to Deputy Commander for Combat Training of Frontal and Army Aviation, and Deputy Commander for Flight Training. In these roles, he achieved the ranks of Major General in 1978 and Lieutenant General in 1986.
On November 1, 1988, Baars became Deputy Commander for Combat Training of Air Defense in the LSKLV. From March 1 to April 18, 1990, he served as General Inspector of the National People's Army.
Parliamentary and Reform Roles
After the "Alliance for Germany" won the East German elections in 1990, Baars became Parliamentary State Secretary and Delegate for Military Reform on April 18, 1990. He held this post until his retirement on September 30, 1990.
Affiliations
Klaus-Jürgen Baars remained an active member of the "Gemeinschaft der Flieger deutscher Streitkräfte e.V." (Association of German Air Force Pilots).
