The Stuttgart-Stammheim Higher Regional Court has initiated the trial of nine men accused of a right-wing extremist plot to overthrow the German government.

The defendants are associated with the Reichsbürger group's 'military arm' and are charged with high treason, attempted murder, and conspiring to carry out a violent coup.

This trial is part of a broader legal action that includes a total of 27 individuals implicated in the thwarted scheme.

The group's plan involved appointing an aristocrat as the national leader and declaring martial law.

Several of the accused have military experience and could face extended prison terms if convicted.

Germany's domestic intelligence has been monitoring the Reichsbürger movement, which denies the legitimacy of modern-day Germany, since 2016.

German Interior Minister Nancy Faeser has committed to intensifying efforts against militant groups such as these.