Archive · 2 Nov 2025
Germany Confident on New Military Service Model for 2026
Germany is trying to bring back a form of military service because of worries about Russia.
The defense minister is hopeful that politicians will agree on a new plan by next year, so it can start in 2026.
They want to increase the number of soldiers to meet goals set by NATO and make the country safer.
The minister also wants to buy new 'kamikaze' drones, which are small, single-use flying weapons.
These drones have been important in the war in Ukraine.
Germany is testing drones from three companies and will choose one to buy by the end of the year.
Some politicians are concerned about these drones, but the army needs to catch up with this technology.
Germany's Defence Minister is confident a new military service model will be agreed upon for 2026.
The plan aims to increase the number of active soldiers to 260,000 by the early 2030s to meet NATO targets.
Germany ended compulsory military service in 2011 and has since struggled to meet troop numbers.
The country is also testing kamikaze drones to enhance its defense capabilities.
The procurement of these controversial drones is being rushed due to their effectiveness in the Ukraine war.
- Who
- German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and the ruling coalition
- What
- Working to agree on a new model for military service and procure kamikaze drones
- When
- Aiming for new military service to be effective in 2026, drone testing by end of 2024
- Where
- Germany
- Why
- To meet NATO targets, bolster defenses amid security concerns over Russia, and arm with crucial drone technology
- Active Soldiers Target
- 260,000 by early 2030s
- Current Active Soldiers
- 180,000
- Compulsory Service End Date
- 2011
- Kamikaze Drone Testing
- Ends by end of 2024
- Potential Drone Contract Value
- Approx. 300 million euros per company