Germany: in Munich, Friedrich Merz reaffirms plan to make the Bundeswehr Europe’s strongest conventional army

Sunday 15 February 2026 - 08:30

By: Sahili Aya

Germany: in Munich, Friedrich Merz reaffirms plan to make the Bundeswehr Europe’s strongest conventional army

At the Munich Security Conference, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz delivered a forceful message about Europe’s changing geopolitical environment, declaring that Germany intends to build the Bundeswehr into “the most powerful conventional army in Europe.”

Speaking before an audience of global security leaders in Munich, Merz argued that Europe has emerged from what he described as a prolonged period of strategic complacency. Citing German philosopher Peter Sloterdijk, he suggested that Europe can no longer afford to remain a passive observer of global affairs while other powers shape the international order.

A shifting global order

Merz painted a stark picture of a world entering a new era defined by power politics and great-power rivalry. According to the German leader, the rules-based international order that shaped the post-Cold War period is eroding. He pointed to Russia’s war in Ukraine and what he called Moscow’s revisionist ambitions, while also highlighting China’s growing global influence.

He argued that the period of unchallenged American supremacy following the fall of the Berlin Wall has ended. In his assessment, the global system is moving toward renewed competition among major powers, with the United States facing increasing strategic pressure.

Yet Merz insisted that Europe is not powerless in this environment. “We are not at the mercy of this world,” he said, emphasizing that Europe can shape its own destiny if it acts with unity and resolve.

Stronger, but not alone

While advocating a substantial military buildup, Merz rejected any notion of unilateral German action. He underlined that Germany’s leadership must remain rooted in partnership, particularly within the European Union and NATO. Hegemonic ambitions, he stressed, are not an option for Berlin.

Nevertheless, he reaffirmed Germany’s ambition to take a leading role in European defense. Berlin plans to invest hundreds of billions of euros in the coming years to modernize its armed forces. These efforts include expanding air defense systems, enhancing long-range precision strike capabilities supported by satellite technology, and revitalizing the domestic defense industry.

Merz also highlighted Germany’s commitment to NATO’s eastern flank. A German brigade has been deployed to Lithuania — the first time in the history of the Bundeswehr that a unit of such scale has been stationed permanently outside national territory. The chancellor added that Germany would also contribute to strengthening security in Northern Europe.

European dimension and nuclear debate

Despite the emphasis on military strength, Merz framed Germany’s strategy within a broader European perspective. Reinforcing Europe’s role within NATO remains a top priority, he said, calling for credible deterrence and deeper cooperation among allies.

He confirmed that confidential discussions have begun with French President Emmanuel Macron regarding the future of European nuclear deterrence — a sensitive topic as Europe reassesses its security architecture. Macron is expected to clarify France’s doctrine in an upcoming address, potentially outlining how national nuclear policy could intersect with closer European coordination.

Merz’s speech in Munich signals a decisive shift in German strategic thinking: a commitment to military strength anchored in European partnership, as the continent navigates an increasingly unstable global landscape.