The German Bundestag’s Military Commissioner, Henning Otte (CDU), is advocating for the formalization of recruitment targets within the forthcoming Wehrdienstgesetz (Military Service Act) and a potential return to compulsory military service should those targets fail to materialize. Speaking to RTL and ntv’s “Frühstart” program, Otte argued for legally binding quotas to ensure the planned expansion of the Bundeswehr remains on track, stating that clear timelines and measurable goals are essential for accountability. He expressed confidence that Defence Minister Pistorius shares this understanding, particularly given the ministry’s own established targets for troop augmentation.
Otte’s insistence on swift legislative action reflects growing pressure both within the military and from the public, highlighting a perceived urgency to revitalize the Bundeswehr’s capabilities. He acknowledges considerable ‘catch-up’ work is needed to restore the armed forces to a credible state of readiness, emphasizing the seriousness of the current geopolitical landscape. “We must face the facts to be strong and defensible” he stated.
The commissioner’s proposal leans towards a “needs-based military service” tailored to focus on the skill sets required to strengthen the army’s deterrent capabilities. While expressing cautious optimism regarding volunteer recruitment, Otte suggested that a lottery system-previously considered a possibility-may become unnecessary following the introduction of comprehensive, nationwide military aptitude testing slated for mid-2027. Notably, he stressed a renewed focus on a more modern and welcoming approach to these aptitude tests, recognizing their importance in attracting potential recruits. The call for formalized targets and the suggestion of a backstop conscription raise questions about the German government’s long-term strategy for military manpower and underscore the political challenges inherent in rebuilding the Bundeswehr’s capability in an era of heightened security concerns. The debate highlights a fundamental tension between reliance on voluntary recruitment and the potential necessity of mandatory service to ensure national defense.