Bavarian PM demands full modernisation of Germany's armed forces amid rising global tensions

Chairman of the Christian Social Union (CSU) and Bavarian Prime Minister Markus Söder has called for a significant rearmament of Germany's armed forces, the Bundeswehr, in light of growing security concerns. 

In an interview, Söder outlined his vision for a comprehensive overhaul of the country's defence capabilities, Caliber.Az reports per German media.

"The Bundeswehr requires full modernization," Söder stated. "This includes the creation of a drone army with 100,000 unmanned aerial vehicles, 800 new tanks, 2,000 Patriot air defence systems, and 1,000 Taurus missiles specifically for Germany. These assets would form a defensive shield similar to the 'Iron Dome' system."

Söder emphasized that the Taurus missiles are "the most important precision weapons Germany has at its disposal." 

His comments highlight the importance of high-tech, precision weaponry in the modern defence landscape. In addition to bolstering Germany’s military assets, Söder expressed support for Friedrich Merz’s proposal to establish a European nuclear umbrella, which could involve France and the UK with Germany’s backing. He argued that such a defense initiative would be crucial for Europe's security. Söder stressed that "only those who are strong economically and militarily will be taken seriously on the international stage," underscoring the importance of strengthening Germany's position in the global security environment. 

Söder’s remarks come in the wake of the Munich Security Conference, where the shifting dynamics of US foreign policy have made it clear that Europe, and particularly Germany, must assume greater responsibility for its own defence. The CSU leader's comments signal a growing sense of urgency within Germany’s political establishment to ensure the country is well-prepared for future security challenges.

By Naila Huseynova