Germany’s Bundeswehr finds 31% of volunteers medically unfit

Almost one in three volunteers seeking to join Germany's armed forces were found medically unfit for military service in the second quarter of 2026, according to figures from the country's Defence Ministry.

According to Der Spiegel, 31% of volunteers failed their medical examinations during the period, up from about 25% in the first months of the year.

Between April and the end of May, the Bundeswehr contacted 169,141 potential candidates and asked them to complete questionnaires about their interest in military service.

Der Spiegel said the figures showed that many applicants did not meet the requirements for recruitment.

A new military service law came into force in Germany on 1 January 2026. It requires young people to undergo medical examinations and restores military registration.

Military recruitment remains voluntary for the time being. Under the new system, adult male citizens must complete a questionnaire covering their physical fitness and willingness to join the Bundeswehr, while completing the questionnaire is voluntary for women.

By Aghakazim Guliyev