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Is Germany building an army?

Asked 3 hours ago

Answer

Germany is actively strengthening its military by introducing new recruitment models focused on voluntary service, with plans to require all 18-year-old men to register and undergo medical screening. While military service remains voluntary, officials indicate that compulsory service could be reinstated if volunteer numbers are insufficient. These measures aim to enhance defense readiness and meet NATO commitments by 2035.

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France 24

Germany approves voluntary military service to boost army

France 24 · Current
France 24
France 24
Current
  • Germany has agreed to a new military plan in response to Russian threats and concerns about U.S. reliability.
  • The government will focus on making voluntary military service more attractive to young people, starting with a questionnaire and medical test for all 18-year-old men next year. 29s
  • Financial incentives will be offered to encourage voluntary enlistment. 43s
  • Mandatory service is not planned but remains an option if voluntary participation is insufficient, requiring additional legislation. 54s
  • NATO has called for Germany to increase its military strength to 460,000 troops, but current numbers are significantly lower. 1m 22s
Military & ConflictPolitics

References

Germany approves voluntary military service to boost army
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France 24
2 days ago
Germany approves voluntary military service to boost army

Germany has agreed to a new military plan to increase its forces amid growing Russian threats and concerns over U.S. reliability.

Germany approves voluntary military service to boost army
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France 24
2 days ago
Germany approves voluntary military service to boost army

Starting next year, all 18-year-old men must complete a questionnaire about willingness to serve and undergo a medical test, with financial incentives offered.

Germany approves voluntary military service to boost army
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France 24
2 days ago
Germany approves voluntary military service to boost army

If not enough young people volunteer, mandatory service may be required to ensure defense capabilities, but this would need new legislation.

Germany outlines potential shift to compulsory conscription
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DW News
2 days ago
Germany outlines potential shift to compulsory conscription

Germany aims to strengthen its military as global threats rise, seeking to persuade more young people to enlist.

Germany outlines potential shift to compulsory conscription
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DW News
2 days ago
Germany outlines potential shift to compulsory conscription

The government has agreed on a new recruitment procedure, starting in 2026, requiring young men to state willingness to serve; young women can opt in.

Germany outlines potential shift to compulsory conscription
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DW News
2 days ago
Germany outlines potential shift to compulsory conscription

Defence Minister Pistorius believes enough volunteers will be found to reach the target of up to 270,000 service personnel by 2035, but conscription could be introduced if needed.

Germany inches closer to bringing back mandatory military service
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Euronews
3 days ago
Germany inches closer to bringing back mandatory military service

Germany announced a revamped military service model, effective January 1, 2026.

Germany inches closer to bringing back mandatory military service
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Euronews
3 days ago
Germany inches closer to bringing back mandatory military service

The law requires all men of legal age to undergo medical screenings and complete a questionnaire on willingness to serve.

Germany inches closer to bringing back mandatory military service
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Euronews
3 days ago
Germany inches closer to bringing back mandatory military service

If volunteer numbers are insufficient, Berlin may reintroduce compulsory service through new legislation.

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