The German Ministry of Defence anticipates an increase in soldiers utilizing complimentary rail travel following the implementation of the new national service program, but does not foresee significant financial repercussions.
A ministry spokesperson confirmed in Berlin on Wednesday that conscripts participating in the new service will be classified as professional soldiers, thereby qualifying them for existing benefits such as free train travel. “Consequently, we anticipate a larger proportion of soldiers utilizing rail transport” the spokesperson stated.
However, the ministry projects that the anticipated growth of the Bundeswehr by up to 30,000 volunteers over the coming years represents a relatively minor increase compared to the overall strength of the armed forces, currently at 180,000. This incremental rise is not expected to substantially impact the budget allocated to “Rail Travel in Uniform” according to the spokesperson.
“The costs associated with the new national service, scheduled to begin next year, are already factored into the draft budget for 2026 and will continue to be addressed in subsequent budgets, ensuring these expenses are accounted for” they added.