German Minister Estimates Army Needs Up to 60,000 Additional Active Soldiers

German Defense Minister Pistorius believes the German army will need an additional 50,000 to 60,000 active soldiers in the coming years to meet NATO's new requirements. "Even then, it remains uncertain whether this will suffice for the years beyond," he stated ahead of the NATO defense ministers' meeting in Brussels.

The German army, the Bundeswehr, had over 180,000 active soldiers in 2024, but the target was 203,000. Pistorius's plans from last year already called for increasing reservists from 60,000 to 260,000.

Military analysts suggest that recruiting additional active soldiers may come at the expense of the intended reservist numbers. Pistorius noted that reintroducing conscription is not currently viable due to insufficient barracks and training facilities.

NATO countries are particularly concerned about the threat posed by Russia, especially due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. As a result, NATO has decided to significantly enhance its military capabilities. Pistorius emphasized that Germany, given its population and economic size, will shoulder a substantial part of this expansion.

NATO Secretary-General Rutte recently stated that NATO requires more weapons, troops, and capabilities to be prepared for any threat. Priority areas include air defense, artillery, ammunition, drones, heavy air transport, and logistics.