German Bundeswehr sees 24% jump in applications after new voluntary service launch

Five months after the introduction of a new voluntary military service, Germany’s Ministry of Defence reported a strong recruitment uptick. Around 298,200 questionnaire letters were sent to 18‑year‑olds, 96 % of the roughly 153,200 men responded, while only about four percent of women (around 145,000 letters) replied. More than one‑fifth of the male respondents expressed interest, leading to roughly 1,500 assessments and the scheduling of about 600 further assessment appointments. The ministry said 530 young men have already been slated for service in 2026, with many others expected to become available within one to two years.

The classic recruitment channels also showed growth: about 38,500 applications were received, a 24 % increase over the same period last year, and 11,000 new hires were recorded, up 13 % year‑on‑year. These figures support the government’s goal to expand the active Bundeswehr force from just over 180,000 to 260,000 personnel and to build a reserve of 200,000. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius stressed that the voluntary model remains the chosen approach, while discussing possible future measures such as a demand‑driven conscription if recruitment targets are not met.