Germany’s top military official has issued a sweeping directive calling for the rapid expansion and modernization of the Bundeswehr’s weapons stockpile and strategic capabilities in preparation for a potential security threat from Russia by 2029, according to documents obtained by Reuters.
The directive, titled “Priorities for the Bolstering of Readiness”, was signed on May 19 by General Carsten Breuer, inspector general of the Bundeswehr, and outlines a bold push to reshape Germany’s defense posture in the face of growing geopolitical uncertainty in Europe.
Although Moscow continues to deny any aggressive intentions toward NATO member states, General Breuer’s order emphasizes the need to rapidly procure advanced air defense systems and long-range precision strike weapons with ranges exceeding 500 kilometers.
The Bundeswehr is also being tasked with enhancing its capabilities in electronic warfare, as well as developing new space-based systems for both defensive and offensive operations.
A Shift in Strategy
The directive marks a dramatic shift for a nation historically cautious in military affairs since the end of World War II. Chancellor Friedrich Merz reinforced this change on Monday by lifting restrictions on the range of weaponry Germany is permitted to supply to Ukraine. Analysts interpret the move as signaling the potential delivery of Taurus long-range missiles—an arms transfer the previous administration had declined.
Further underlining the shift in defense policy, Merz’s government amended Germany’s debt laws earlier this year, allowing defense spending to bypass the country’s strict “debt brake.” The Chancellor has proposed increasing national security expenditures to 5% of GDP by 2032—more than double the current 2%—a move he says will transform the Bundeswehr into the most powerful military force in Europe.
Rebuilding the Ranks
The rearmament push also extends to manpower. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius revealed that the government is weighing the introduction of a conscription model inspired by Sweden, ending the current volunteer-only system. The new model could be rolled out as early as next year, dramatically expanding the pool of military personnel.
Economic Hurdles
However, Germany’s ambitious defense overhaul comes amid significant economic turbulence. The country is facing rising concerns about de-industrialization and stagnant growth. In a symbolic blow to German industry, Bild reported on Sunday that ThyssenKrupp—once a titan of German manufacturing with over 200 years of history—is undergoing a radical restructuring.
According to the report, ThyssenKrupp will reduce its headquarters staff from 500 to just 100, transfer ownership of its steel mills to Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky, and prepare its naval shipyard unit, Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), for sale on the open market. Most other divisions will be divested as part of what Bild described as a “virtual dissolution” of the industrial conglomerate.
Global Implications
Germany’s military reawakening is being closely watched across Africa and the Global South, where increased NATO militarization and great power competition often shape local security environments and economic relations. As Europe reorients its defense policies, questions remain about how such moves will affect global arms dynamics, alliance commitments, and diplomatic engagement—particularly in Africa, where Germany has growing military, economic, and humanitarian footprints.
While Berlin accelerates its preparations for a long-term security threat, the implications of its rearmament agenda will extend far beyond Europe’s borders.
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