The German military or Bundeswehr is struggling with personnel shortages and aging equipment, despite increased defense spending, according to a report presented to parliament on Tuesday by Defense Commissioner Eva Högl.
According to the report, although recruitment increased by 8%, with over 20,000 new recruits last year, more than a quarter chose to leave after their six-month probationary period. Meanwhile, nearly 20% of non-enlisted and 28% of enlisted positions remain vacant.
“At the same time, the Bundeswehr keeps growing older,” said Högl. “While the average age was 32.4 years at the end of 2019, it grew to 34 years by the end of 2024.”
Some German lawmakers have called for reinstating general conscription for males, which was suspended in 2011, to address the military’s staffing crisis. However, Högl opposed a full return to mandatory service, citing a lack of training facilities and instructors.
She instead suggested a new and improved conscription system requiring young men and women to complete a “social year” in military or civilian service.
Despite the establishment of a €100 billion ($106 billion) special fund following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the report also noted that the Bundeswehr still lacks the essential tools to effectively fight a modern war.
The force requires upgraded infantry fighting vehicles, naval combat ships, missile defense systems, more combat drones, and other advanced weaponry, according to the report.
“The Bundeswehr still has too little of everything,” Högl said.
Germany’s military challenges arise at a time when the United States’ commitment to NATO is more uncertain than ever. U.S. President Donald Trump repeatedly said that the U.S. might not assist NATO allies unless they contribute more to defense spending.
Despite the challenges being faced by the German military, reports noted that it has been taking a more active military role in supporting NATO.
In 2024, Germany ratified an agreement to permanently station a 5,000-strong brigade in Lithuania. This deployment underscores Germany’s dedication to NATO’s collective defense principles and enhances the alliance’s deterrence posture in Eastern Europe.
Additionally, the German Navy has actively participated in NATO-led missions, with the frigate Hessen notably engaging Houthi rebel threats in the Red Sea as part of an EU-led operation to secure critical shipping routes. This marked the first combat engagement by the German Navy since World War II.
