Germany’s sweeping military reform targets MAD and Feldjäger expansion

A long-awaited reform could reshape Germany’s military security. But will new data collection powers cross the line? Critics and supporters clash over balance.

, and Administrator

2025 November 13 . 7:23 AM

1 min read

In the picture we can see three boys standing near the desk on it, we can see two computer systems... — In the picture we can see three boys standing near the desk on it, we can see two computer systems towards them and one boy is talking into the microphone and they are in ID cards with red tags to it and behind them we can see a wall with an advertisement board and written on it as Russia imagine 2013.

Germany’s sweeping military reform targets MAD and Feldjäger expansion

Parliament is set to overhaul the Military Counterintelligence Service (MAD) with a draft law that aims to modernize and strengthen the agency. Experts agree that reform is long overdue.

The draft law introduces a news MAD Act and revised security vetting rules for service members. Experts praise its practicality and near-exemplary nature. However, concerns arise from Section 4, which allows MAD to automatically collect personal data from public sources, potentially invading privacy.

The new MAD Act seeks to clarify the convoluted current act. A parliamentary hearing in the Bundestag's Defense Committee discussed the draft law, which is expected to have far-reaching consequences beyond MAD itself. Critics, however, point out the incomplete list of permitted intelligence-gathering measures.

Meanwhile, the military police (Feldjäger) are set to gain new responsibilities, including supporting combat operations, maintaining military order, and collaborating with civil authorities in cross-border missions and domestic security. Despite these changes, senior chief warrant officer Ronny Schlenzig notes that Feldjäger lack traffic regulation authority and are barred from searches and seizures.

The draft law aims to bolster military security in the Bundeswehr by revamping MAD and expanding Feldjäger roles. While welcomed for its practicality, the law faces criticism over privacy concerns and incomplete intelligence measures. Its passage is expected to significantly reshape military intelligence and policing.