Germany Bolsters Defense Capabilities with Increased Arms Spending and Advances on Military Service Law
Germany is considerably increasing its defense spending, paving the way for major arms procurements aimed at strengthening its role within NATO and modernizing its armed forces, the Bundeswehr. This comes amid heightened security concerns stemming from the Russian threat.
A key component of this build-up involves the acquisition of additional F-35 fighter jets. While a previous request for fifteen more F-35s was denied in July, a recently expanded defense budget has opened up new possibilities for arms purchases. These jets are crucial for Germany’s participation in NATO’s nuclear sharing arrangement, specifically the capability to transport US nuclear bombs stationed in Germany during a conflict. The Air Force considers the F-35 procurement essential for meeting new NATO requirements, and the Bundeswehr recently ordered an additional 20 Eurofighter jets. air superiority is a central element of NATO’s strengthened defense and deterrence plans.
Beyond the fighter jet acquisitions, the Bundeswehr is set to receive over 400 new wheeled armored vehicles in a deal worth nearly seven billion euros. A framework contract with US defense company General Dynamics will cover the growth and procurement of up to 356 reconnaissance vehicles, with an initial order of 274 vehicles valued at around 3.5 billion euros. An option exists to order an additional 82 vehicles, possibly raising the total cost to around 4.6 billion euros. The first vehicles are expected to be delivered in 2028. These projects represent core initiatives in the modernization of the German army.
Parallel to the arms procurements, the German government is working to finalize a new military service law.Despite recent internal disagreements, Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and Chancellery Head Thorsten Frei expressed optimism about its passage before the January 1st deadline. The law aims to address potential recruitment shortfalls, and discussions continue regarding a possible lottery system for mandatory mustering if voluntary recruitment proves insufficient.
While acknowledging recent disputes, Frei emphasized that constructive disagreement is a natural part of the democratic process. Pistorius similarly downplayed the severity of the disagreements, stating that no lasting damage had been done. Chancellor Friedrich Merz confirmed a recent conversation with Pistorius, agreeing to a meeting in the coming days to resolve remaining issues surrounding the transition from voluntary to mandatory military service. The government remains committed to passing the new conscription law in 2025.
