Recruitment at the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) has surged to its highest level in several years, even before the planned introduction of a new conscription model slated for 2026.
An internal overview of personnel figures from the Ministry of Defence, reported by the Süddeutsche Zeitung, reveals a 28% increase in military appointments from January to July 22nd, reaching 13,739. This figure strongly suggests that the annual target of 20,000 new military personnel will be exceeded.
The total strength of the Bundeswehr, encompassing professional soldiers, soldiers serving fixed-term contracts and volunteers, has risen slightly by 1%. The largest proportion of this increase is attributable to volunteers participating in the existing voluntary service program, which has seen its numbers rise by 15%, reaching 11,400 – the highest level in a decade. Significant growth was also observed in the ranks of enlisted personnel (a 38% increase) and non-commissioned officers (a 41% increase).
Increased interest in service within the Bundeswehr is also reflected in rising figures for initial consultations, totaling 60,589 (an 11% increase) and applications, which reached approximately 36,000 (an 8% increase). State Secretary Nils Hilmer, instrumental in efforts to enhance the attractiveness of military service and increase recruitment, has overseen these efforts.
The long-term impact of the planned new conscription model remains to be seen. Scheduled for approval by the Federal Cabinet on August 27th and intended to come into effect at the beginning of 2026, this model aims to secure up to 15,000 new conscripts annually and elevate the overall number of military appointments to 25,000 per year. The existing voluntary service program will be absorbed into the new system. Against a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning Russia, the personnel strength of the Bundeswehr is projected to reach approximately 260,000 in the coming years. The reserves are also expected to grow to 200,000, partly facilitated by the integration of conscripts.