NATO Urges Germany to Nearly Double Army Size

NATO’s updated defense plans call for Germany to expand its armed forces to 395,000 personnel—an increase of more than 80% from current levels.

According to the latest official data from the German Ministry of Defense dated February 28, 2025, the Bundeswehr currently has 182,667 soldiers.

The demand, reported by the CPM Defense Network, comes ahead of the NATO summit scheduled for June 24–26 in The Hague, where the Alliance is expected to adopt new measures to counter continued Russian aggression.

The plans envision a significantly expanded German force as part of a broader effort to build a stronger European military posture.

However, the publication notes that implementation is likely to face delays, particularly when it comes to reaching agreement on force levels.

Under the revised framework, Germany would be required to field a force of at least 395,000 troops—far more than the current 183,000 active soldiers and 60,000 reservists.

German officials and military experts have expressed skepticism, citing both financial and recruitment challenges. Still, the proposed number remains well below Cold War levels.

In a recent interview, retired General Eberhard Zorn, former Inspector General of the Bundeswehr, said the proposed expansion would require five to seven additional brigades, organized into two new divisions on top of the three currently in operation. He also called for replenishing existing units.

“From a materiel standpoint, this is achievable if industry aligns with defense planning. The real challenge is personnel—especially since the military is labor-intensive,” Zorn said. “That’s why many are calling for the return of conscription. Personally, I’d even consider universal service for men and women, with flexible formats. But organizing and equipping that will take considerable time.”

Germany has already begun to bolster its defense infrastructure. In March 2025, Berlin launched its first territorial defense division (Heimatschutzdivision), a 6,000-strong unit tasked with protecting critical infrastructure in peacetime and supporting troop movements or disaster relief.

In wartime, the division would help counter military threats and reinforce deterrence efforts.