Berlin: Germany is confronting a pivotal moment in its military planning as top defense officials warn that the Bundeswehr must more than double its size to meet evolving security challenges. In a confidential memorandum, Army Chief Alfons Mais conveyed to Chief of Defence Staff Carsten Breuer that the current structure of 62,000 active-duty soldiers and 37,000 reserve personnel is inadequate to fulfill Germany’s defense commitments by 2035. The warning comes amid rising concerns over Russia’s regional activities and NATO’s evolving defense posture.
Mais has outlined a plan calling for a substantial increase in personnel, proposing an addition of 100,000 active troops over the next decade. The strategy suggests 45,000 new soldiers by 2029 and another 45,000 by 2035, alongside 10,000 more for territorial defense. The expansion aligns with NATO’s updated targets following the geopolitical upheavals triggered by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, reflecting Germany’s commitment to both national defense and alliance obligations.
Despite these ambitious targets, Germany faces significant hurdles. Recruitment struggles, an ageing force, and equipment shortages have hindered the Bundeswehr’s ability to meet even previous staffing goals. Current deployments, including a 5,000-strong brigade stationed in Lithuania and intensified naval patrols in the Baltic Sea, demonstrate Germany’s operational engagement in Eastern Europe. Yet, officials acknowledge that without a substantial increase in manpower, the army’s capacity to respond to threats remains constrained.
To address these challenges, the German government has introduced measures such as a six-month voluntary military service program, aimed at expanding the pool of trained reservists. Discussions are also ongoing regarding the potential reinstatement of mandatory conscription, abolished in 2011, to further strengthen force numbers. These proposals reflect the government’s recognition that Germany’s defense posture must evolve rapidly to address emerging threats.
NATO allies are closely monitoring Germany’s progress, as the country’s military capability is considered a cornerstone of regional stability. With rising security tensions across Europe, Germany’s plan to significantly expand its army signals both a strategic commitment to NATO and a clear message that it is preparing to confront potential aggressions decisively.