German Army to Expand with ‘Voluntary’ Service

The number of soldiers will be increased by 80,000, bringing the total to 260,000.

📌 A new conscription model has been announced in Germany to boost military recruitment.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the proposed legislation would modernize Germany’s military service model without returning to the conscription system that was abolished in 2011, while making the Bundeswehr (Armed Forces) more attractive.

“In our coalition agreement, we initially agreed to expand the Bundeswehr on a voluntary basis. We are now implementing this approach with the new law, which will come into effect from 2026,” he stated.

📌 In addition, Germany has established a National Security Council to improve coordination and planning on security and defense matters.

Source: Habertürk

Photo: Reuters / Hannibal Hanschke (illustrative)