The German Federal Cabinet has endorsed a draft bill designed to streamline and expedite procurement processes for the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces). The legislation, proposed jointly by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and the Federal Ministry of Defence, aims to significantly simplify the awarding of public contracts necessary to meet the Bundeswehr’s needs.
Key to the reform is the expansion of the Bundeswehr Procurement Acceleration Act. Originally limited to military equipment, the scope has now been broadened to encompass all needs of the Bundeswehr, including civilian requirements such as medical supplies and construction services. This includes the construction and maintenance of military barracks. The period of relaxed regulations has also been extended to the end of 2035.
The draft bill incorporates measures intended to simplify and accelerate the awarding and review procedures for public contracts. It seeks to encourage the integration of both innovative and readily available solutions whilst facilitating joint procurement with partner nations.
Alongside the procurement reforms, planned adjustments to the Air Traffic Act are included. These adjustments address planning law considerations related to military air defense radar systems and military airfields, aimed at ensuring their operational functionality and strengthening the security interests of Germany.
“During the previous legislative period, we significantly accelerated procurement for the Bundeswehr and initiated more major projects than ever before” stated Defence Minister Boris Pistorius. The new law is intended to further accelerate planning and procurement processes, enabling quicker and more frequent direct awarding of contracts – particularly when procuring interoperable systems with partner nations.