Having joined the Bundeswehr in 2001, von Puttkamer has broken barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field, becoming one of the first female commanders of a minehunter. Currently overseeing the last remaining mine countermeasure squadron of the German Navy, she is responsible for twelve vessels and 600 personnel, specializing in the detection and neutralization of naval mines. Her leadership is underscored by her belief in the strategic significance of mines in maritime warfare, particularly in the context of current geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.