Germany’s Bundeswehr is in need of an additional 50,000 to 60,000 active troops to meet the new NATO planning goals for enhanced defense capabilities, according to the German government. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius made the statement on Thursday in Brussels, where NATO defense ministers gathered to approve the new goals. Pistorius explained that the Bundeswehr requires more soldiers in its standing forces, with the question of whether the new draft in the coming years will be sufficient also raised.
NATO plans to significantly build up its military capabilities for deterrence and defense in the face of ongoing threats from Russia. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte emphasized the need for more resources, troops and capabilities to be prepared for any threat and to fully implement collective defense plans. The top priority for the alliance includes air and missile defense, long-range weapon systems, logistics and large infantry units of land forces.
In the Bundeswehr, the number of soldiers decreased slightly last year, despite more new recruits, with the average age of soldiers increasing. As of the end of 2024, there were approximately 181,150 soldiers, a decrease from the roughly 181,500 the year before. The previously stated goal was to have 203,000 active soldiers in the forces. A new discussion around mandatory military service is already emerging, as the voluntary service is to be re-discussed.