Bundeswehr at 70: Germany's Military Faces Modernization and Expansion
The Bundeswehr, Germany's military force, turns 70 this year. Established in 1955 with a democratic ethos and transatlantic ties, it's now facing a pivotal moment due to the war in Ukraine. The German government plans significant expansion and modernization, aiming to reach 260,000 soldiers by 2035.
Initially formed with 'alliance responsibility, defensive capability, and democratic oversight' as its core principles, the Bundeswehr has evolved over seven decades. It has adapted to changes like the end of conscription, integrating women, and responding to disasters and overseas deployments. Captain Sebastian Preuß will delve into this history at a free public lecture on November 13, 2025, at Point Alpha.
The war in Ukraine has sparked a rethink. The German government is boosting recruitment, considering partial conscription in crises, and bolstering reserves to around 200,000. It's also investing heavily in military security, cyber defense, and modernization, with plans to spend around 377 billion euros from 2024 to 2034.
As the Bundeswehr marks its 70th anniversary, it looks towards a future shaped by the challenges of the present. The lecture by Captain Preuß offers a chance to reflect on its past and consider its role in the years ahead.
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