The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung criticizes Germany’s new military strategy, arguing a ten-year timeline for a half-million-strong army is too slow given current threats.
Germany’s Military Expansion Plan
Germany intends to build a powerful military, but the process is projected to take a decade. The Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (FAZ) argues that waiting is not an option, and Germany must demonstrate its defensive capabilities to Vladimir Putin immediately.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius presented the first strategy for developing the armed forces on Wednesday.
Stages of Bundeswehr Expansion
The Bundeswehr’s expansion is divided into three phases. The initial focus, by 2029, is on rapidly increasing defensive readiness. The second phase, planned for 2035, aims for significant growth in all operational domains – land, air, sea, cyber, and space – aligning with NATO and national defense plans.
The long-term goal, by 2039, is to create a more innovative and technologically advanced military.
Projected Troop Numbers
After the first two phases, the Bundeswehr is expected to have a total of 460,000 soldiers ready for combat, including 260,000 in active service and 200,000 reservists.
Criticism of the Strategy
FAZ publicist Reinhard Mueller writes that the Bundeswehr “must more quickly and effectively utilize” its potential. He criticizes Pistorius for “banal conclusions,” such as reducing bureaucracy and eliminating unnecessary reports.
Mueller argues that “the key is for every potential aggressor to receive a clear signal: no one can afford to attack Germany,” and this “must be communicated now.” He believes Pistorius lacks this clarity.
Urgency and Lessons from Ukraine
“If someone repeats like a mantra that Putin will be able to attack NATO by 2029 at the latest, they should not postpone plans until later. Half a million soldiers ready only in ten years is definitely too long,” according to FAZ.
Mueller also notes that Ukraine may soon have as many drone operators as the Bundeswehr has soldiers in total, adding that Kyiv demonstrates “genial improvisation” and is a “teacher” for Germany.
