The German Defense Minister Initiates Urgent Military Rearmament Due to Growing Threat of Russian Attack
Amid escalating geopolitical tensions and the relentless buildup of Moscow's military capabilities, Germany’s Ministry of Defence has launched a comprehensive mobilization campaign aimed at significantly strengthening the country’s defense potential. According to Reuters, Defense Minister for Development, Carsten Broyer, issued a clear order for the rapid rearmament of the German armed forces — the Bundeswehr — involving modern weapons and equipment capable of providing the country with maximum effective defense by 2029. The document, currently in the hands of journalists, emphasizes the critical importance of quickly enhancing military power, especially considering the potential threat of invasion from Russia in the region. The directive places particular focus on increasing Germany’s defensive and offensive capabilities against a possible Moscow attack, which, according to NATO officials, could heighten regional tensions and complicate the security situation not only in Europe but across the continent as a whole. The document underscores that by the end of 2029, Russia might restore its troop numbers and resource capabilities to such an extent that it would be capable of launching large-scale aggression against NATO member countries. Therefore, Ukraine, Poland, the Baltic states, and other nations must prepare for a high level of military confrontation. Internal sources indicate that the Ministry of Defence plans to develop a specific procurement and production strategy for weapons systems deemed a priority. In particular, there is a strict directive to acquire and deploy top-quality air defense systems on short notice. Another strategic goal is to significantly enhance the army’s ability to deliver high-precision strikes against strategic targets behind enemy lines from distances over 500 kilometers. Attention is focused on long-range systems such as Patriot, as well as units providing close defense. The Defense Minister also explicitly acknowledged the need to increase ammunition stocks and elevate the minimum levels of their accumulation across all arms. This aspect is crucial for ensuring continuous combat readiness and the ability to respond swiftly to any challenge. Simultaneously, the document emphasizes paying particular attention to the creation of powerful electronic warfare systems capable of disrupting enemy command and control systems and reducing their combat responsiveness. An important component of strategic planning involves the development of what is termed space infrastructure. The directive explicitly states ambitious goals for establishing a “resilient system” to sustain offensive and defensive capabilities in space — considering current threats related to interference in space activities, as well as to maintain control over critical high-tech assets. According to senior military officials, the global situation is becoming increasingly tense. German Army Commander Alphons Maisz previously highlighted in May that Russia’s destructive social and industrial mobilization and rapid buildup of military power indicate Moscow’s active preparations for a large-scale military operation in the near future. “We observe Russian forces replenishing reserves, modernizing equipment, and intensifying their combat readiness. They may not be capable of a large-scale aggression before 2029, but it is possible they will begin testing us earlier,” he said. In summary, experts and military analysts emphasize that Berlin’s current course toward accelerating rearmament and strengthening defense capabilities serves as a clear signal to NATO partners and potential adversaries. As the Russian military demonstrates a high level of mobilization and technical preparedness, Europe and its allies must respond as promptly and responsibly as possible to ensure their security and stability in the region. It is already apparent that the events around Ukraine and the threat from Moscow compel a rethinking of defense strategies and a reorientation of resources for a potential confrontation at any moment.