Germany is preparing to introduce a new military service system in 2026

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has expressed confidence that a fragmented coalition will be able to agree and introduce a new model of military service in 2026, despite opposition from MPs. In an interview with Reuters , he said the decision was crucial to strengthen the country's security amid the threat from Russia.

The German government has already approved Pistorius' proposal to introduce voluntary military service to increase the number of recruits and reservists. However, the project still requires the approval of parliament, where divisions are emerging, especially among the Social Democrats and some conservatives.

The situation is serious and everyone realises this," Pistorius said, adding that the new law will come into force early next year as planned.

The minister also emphasised that if there is a shortage of volunteers, there will be no lottery to recruit young people as it could lead to the recruitment of unmotivated candidates. Instead, he called for the use of persuasion rather than coercion to attract young men to the army.

In addition, Pistorius outlined a target to increase the number of active military personnel from 180,000 to 260,000 by the early 2030s, in line with NATO's new objectives and strengthening Germany's defence capability.

The defence minister also announced the completion of tests of disposable kamikaze drones and the announcement of an order for them by the end of the year.

Preparations for the country's defence are becoming increasingly urgent amid the growing threat from Russia. Germany is already preparing a plan to counter hybrid warfare, including cyber attacks and disinformation, and continues to strengthen its defence within NATO.