Germany expands Bundeswehr military personnel targets

Germany is undergoing a significant military expansion to bolster its defense capabilities in response to security threats from Russia. The Bundeswehr aims to grow to a total of 460,000 personnel by 2035, consisting of at least 260,000 active-duty soldiers and 200,000 reservists.

To support this growth, the German cabinet approved the Reservestärkungsgesetz (Reserve Strengthening Act). A key provision of this legislation is a shift away from “double voluntariness,” meaning that reserve service may no longer strictly depend on the consent of the individual reservist or their employer. This move aims to ensure that personnel are available more regularly and reliably for military duties.

While the Bundeswehr has already seen its largest size in 13 years—reaching approximately 186,705 active troops—recruitment remains a challenge due to an aging population and high employment rates. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has introduced the “Responsibility for Europe” strategy to guide this expansion, emphasizing the need for a strong conventional army to ensure European security.