The number of German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) has reached its highest level in the last 12 years, with 184,200 military personnel.
This was reported by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.
According to the German Ministry of Defense, the number of volunteers joining the service in the country increased to 12,200 in 2025, which is more than an 18 percent increase compared to 10,300 in 2024. However, the target was 15,000 volunteers. This figure is expected to reach 20,000 in 2026. Pistorius called the increase in personnel “an indicator of great confidence in the Bundeswehr.”
In 2024, the number of active troops in Germany decreased slightly to approximately 181,150. To meet NATO’s new targets, the Bundeswehr’s strength must be increased to 260,000 by 2035. In addition, there should be 200,000 reservists.
The current security situation, NATO plans, and the tasks arising from these plans are seriously increasing the need for personnel, equipment, and infrastructure.