Germany's redesigned military service programme has led to a notable rise in interest: around 38,500 applications so far this year (up 24%) and roughly 11,000 enlistments (up 13%). Nearly 298,000 questionnaires were sent to young people by June 18, with more than one in five men expressing interest; about 530 recruits have been selected for 2026. The law, effective January 1, supports plans to grow active forces to 260,000 and create a 200,000-strong reserve.
Revamped German Military Service Sparks Surge in Applications as Berlin Moves to Meet NATO Targets
FILE PHOTO - German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) soldiers take part in the three-day military exercise "Red Storm Bravo" in the port of Hamburg by Bundeswehr and several civilian authorities and organizations. (is associated with: «New military service draws more young people to German armed forces») Bodo Marks/dpa
Applications to join Germany's armed forces have risen sharply since the launch of a revamped military service programme, the Defence Ministry reported. Authorities say the increase is part of Berlin's wider effort to expand its military capacity in response to heightened security concerns following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Key Figures
The ministry said about 38,500 applications across all military career tracks have been received so far this year — a 24% increase compared with the same period in 2025. Enlistments have also increased by 13%, reaching roughly 11,000.
Targets and Timeline
The revised military service law took effect on January 1. Under a plans package designed to meet higher NATO force targets, Germany aims to expand its active armed forces to 260,000 personnel (from just over 180,000 today) and to build a reserve force of 200,000.
Questionnaires and Recruitment
As part of the programme, the Defence Ministry has sent questionnaires to young people approaching their 18th birthday to gauge willingness to serve. By June 18, about 298,000 questionnaires had been distributed. Under Germany's constitution, men are required to complete the survey while participation remains voluntary for women. More than one in five male respondents indicated interest in military service, and about 530 people have already been selected to begin service in 2026.
Voluntary Framework and Incentives
Germany suspended compulsory military service in 2011. The new system retains a voluntary basis but adds incentives and outreach measures intended to attract recruits and diversify recruitment across career tracks.
What This Means: The surge in applications suggests early momentum for the revamped programme, but considerable recruitment and retention efforts will be needed to meet Berlin's ambitious expansion and reserve-building goals.
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