In Germany, discussions have intensified regarding a significant increase in the size of its armed forces, as the country needs to meet strict NATO requirements and confirm its ability tocounter new security challenges in Europe
Against the backdrop of regional tensions, especially considering the deterioration of relations with Russia, German military experts and high-ranking officials emphasize that existing military indicators no longer meet modern defense standards and could potentially lead to non-compliance with alliance requirements. André Wüstner, head of the Bundeswehr Association, recently made a public statement calling for a substantial expansion of the German armed forces. According to him, to ensure compliance with NATO standards and Germany’s effective defense strategy, the Bundeswehr should be increased to at least 260,000 personnel. This would be a significant step toward strengthening the country’s defense capabilities and its ability to respond appropriately to possible aggression. “It is clear that our armed forces must be larger than the 203,300 soldiers previously designated as the target figure for 2025 — even before the COVID-19 pandemic. Depending on the assessment of future prospects and strategic models to be adopted at the upcoming NATO summit, we may need to increase our troop numbers by another 40,000 to 60,000. Therefore, I believe active forces should grow and reach a level of 260,000 personnel to carry out assigned tasks and maintain an adequate level of combat readiness,” Wüstner stated in an interview with the editorial office of RedaktionsNetzwerk Deutschland, which was cited by the information agency “European Pravda.” He emphasized that with this number, a solid combat reserve must be formed, capable of quick mobilization if necessary, as the ultimate goal is to reach a total of 460,000 military personnel. This would enable the creation of a robust defense system capable of addressing contemporary challenges and ensuring security not only for Germany but also for NATO’s collective defense. From the perspective of experts and military analysts, recent developments in Europe leave little doubt that the need for large-scale and well-organized military structures is urgent. In this context, earlier reports indicated that Germany would need to transfer at least seven brigades, or about 40,000 soldiers, to NATO. This is an integral part of the new defense strategy plans scheduled for approval soon. Fulfilling these tasks will be challenging, as Germany has not yet reached its declared goal of 203,000 troops, and any increase in personnel requires substantial financial and organizational efforts. At the same time, the political and military leadership in Germany is discussing active measures to modernize the armed forces. General Inspector of the Bundeswehr, Carsten Breyer, recently ordered that by 2029, the German army be fully equipped with modern weapons, equipment, and technology, aimed at strengthening combat capability and ensuring rapid response in any circumstances. These steps are intended to secure that, following the expansion of personnel, German forces can effectively perform their designated functions, meet NATO standards, and address contemporary global security challenges.