Germany is experiencing a genuine boom in interest in military service. Statistics from the beginning of the current year demonstrate a sharp rise in those wishing to join the ranks of the Bundeswehr: the army has already received around 38,500 applications. This is 24% more than during the same period last year. Following the rise in interest, the number of actual recruits has also increased — around 11,000 people have already joined the army, which is 13% higher than last year's figures.

New Accounting System and Digital Questionnaires

The positive trend is largely due to the reform of the military accounting system. The authorities have switched to a digital format: adult citizens now receive electronic questionnaires to assess their suitability and readiness for service. The system has proven highly effective — more than 96% of recipients responded to the requests within the specified time limits.

The survey results were surprising even for experts: every fifth respondent declared their readiness to join the armed forces. At the same time, for those who ignored the questionnaire (about 4% of addressees), the authorities plan to introduce administrative fines to ensure universal coverage.

Goals of Boris Pistorius's Reform

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius is promoting a large-scale reform aimed at significantly increasing the size of the army. In the spring of 2025, the government presented a new model of voluntary military service, which provides for the mandatory completion of a questionnaire by all 18-year-old men.

The key goals of the reform look ambitious:

  • By 2035, the number of active military personnel should grow to 260,000.
  • The combat-ready reserve is planned to be brought to 200,000 people.
  • If necessary, Germany will be able to deploy a grouping with a total strength of up to 460,000 military personnel.

Geopolitical Context and External Threats

The strengthening of the Bundeswehr is taking place against the backdrop of new NATO defense requirements and a growing threat from Russia. Pistorius previously stated that Moscow's aggressive policy and US calls for greater European independence in the sphere of security require concrete actions from Berlin.

The reform is made particularly relevant by the decision of US President Donald Trump to withdraw more than 5,000 American soldiers from German territory. Under these conditions, strengthening its own army has become a matter of national security for Berlin.

Alongside the increase in numbers, Germany is expanding technological cooperation. In April, it was reported that the country intends to join the Ukrainian Brave1 platform and support the development of drones with a range of up to 1,500 kilometers.