Germany Aims to Launch New Military Service Model in 2026, Minister Says

Germany is set to implement a new military service model in 2026, the defence minister said, expressing confidence that the coalition government can reach an agreement despite internal disagreements.

The initiative aims to strengthen recruitment and expand the pool of reservists amid ongoing security concerns linked to Russia.The cabinet has already backed a proposal for voluntary military service, but parliamentary approval is still required.

Some lawmakers from the defence minister’s own party, as well as conservative members of the coalition, have expressed reservations.

“Everyone is aware of the seriousness of the situation,” Pistorius said. “I am therefore confident that the law will come into force at the beginning of the year.”

The proposal seeks to increase active troops from 180,000 to 260,000 by the early 2030s to meet NATO requirements and improve national defence. Last month, Pistorius rejected an alternative plan suggesting a conscription lottery and removing universal medical assessments for recruits, arguing that it could discourage young people and result in unmotivated soldiers.

“We must convince the younger generation with arguments instead of frustrating them,” Pistorius said. “We must make it clear to them that it is worthwhile to have a strong army that is a deterrent to states like Russia.”

He also emphasised the importance of medical evaluations: in the event of an attack, Germany would not waste time determining “who is operationally capable as a homeland protector and who is not.”

Germany ended compulsory military service in 2011 and has struggled to meet troop targets since. The new plan is part of broader efforts to expand military capacity and boost defence spending.

Separately, Germany plans to complete testing of loitering munitions, or “kamikaze” drones, from three companies by the end of the year before submitting a procurement proposal.

“At present, three companies are participating in this testing phase,” Pistorius said. “It will last until the end of the year.”