In 1848, at the start of the Hungarian Revolution, Ottinger was a Brigadier and Major General in Buda.

After the Batthyány Government formed, it offered him a post as Secretary of War, but he rejected it.

Until the government nominated Lázár Mészáros as Secretary of War, Ottinger was the Ministry of Defence's council chairman.

Ferenc Ottinger lost the battle against Mór Perczel on 22 January 1849 at Szolnok.

In the Battle of Káty on 7 June 1849 Ottinger destroyed the 8th Army and received the Military Order of Maria Theresa medal and the title of Baron.