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Germany accelerates military buildup amid rising tensions with Russia
Germany is entering a new era of defense transformation as it embarks on its most ambitious military buildup since the end of World War II. The government’s goal is to strengthen national security and reinforce Europe’s defensive posture in response to growing concerns over Russia’s military aggression and geopolitical ambitions.
Historic budget increases and constitutional reforms
Berlin has approved sweeping budget increases and constitutional changes that reflect a decisive shift in policy. Defense spending is projected to rise nearly 80% by 2029, reaching roughly €150 billion annually, up from about €70 billion. This sharp expansion became possible after lawmakers lifted restrictions imposed by Germany’s “debt brake,” allowing the government to exceed spending caps for defense purposes.
The initial boost came with the €100 billion special fund established in 2022, shortly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Then-Chancellor Olaf Scholz called it a Zeitenwende a historic turning point for Germany and Europe. The fund enabled rapid modernization of outdated military infrastructure and equipment, a priority now embraced by Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s administration.
Expanding industrial capacity and advanced technology
In parallel, Germany is reviving its industrial defense base through large-scale contracting with domestic and European defense firms. The government has ordered hundreds of reconnaissance drones from Quantum Systems to replace the Bundeswehr’s aging fleet, while Rheinmetall is expanding its footprint with thirteen arms factories across Europe, including new ammunition sites in Lithuania and other NATO-member states.
Recent parliamentary approvals have unlocked €52 billion in procurement deals covering advanced weapons systems, surveillance satellites, and artificial intelligence-enhanced battlefield technologies. Berlin’s long-term objective is to grow the Bundeswehr to 260,000 active-duty personnel by 2035, up from around 180,000 today.
Despite a surge in applications following the war in Ukraine, recruitment remains a pressing challenge. Public hesitation toward military service persists, leading policymakers to discuss the possible reintroduction of conscription to reach manpower goals.
Germany’s pivot marks a profound transformation in national strategy, signaling the end of decades of cautious military restraint and the beginning of a new phase of readiness aimed at securing European stability amid uncertain times.
