Germany’s Bundeswehr hits 12-year high in personnel numbers

Germany’s military, the Bundeswehr, has reached its largest size in 12 years, with active personnel numbers approaching 185,000, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius announced.

Pistorius emphasized that the Bundeswehr has experienced significant growth recently, noting that the current strength of approximately 184,200 active service members represents a peak not seen since conscription was abolished, ZDF reports.

“We now have the best recruitment results since conscription was ended. Moreover, the number of active service members is the highest it has been in the past 12 years,” the minister said, highlighting the success of recent recruitment initiatives.

The growth reflects Germany’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its armed forces amid evolving security challenges in Europe. According to Pistorius, this increase demonstrates both the Bundeswehr’s renewed appeal to potential recruits and the government’s commitment to maintaining a capable, modern military.

By Vafa Guliyeva