Germany commits to building the most powerful army

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (right) and Inspector General of the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr), Carsten Breuer, hold a press conference on the Bundeswehr situation on April 22, 2026, at the Ministry of Defense in Berlin. Credit Photo: TOBIAS SCHWARZ / AFP

Germany’s new military strategy aims to make its army “the most powerful conventional army in Europe by 2039 to deter Russia,” German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced on Wednesday.

During a press conference in Berlin, Pistorius stated that the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) have adopted their first-ever comprehensive military strategy to identify threat scenarios and enhance their readiness in the years to come.

“We are increasing the number of soldiers on active duty, reservists, and civilian personnel,”, declared Pistorius.

“Our guiding principle is to aim for at least 460,000 combat-ready soldiers, including active duty and reservists.”

Pistorius also announced that Germany will assume more responsibilities within NATO in the years to come, prioritizing air defense systems.

“Air defense for Germany and for NATO will be a priority area for us”, the minister stated.

“Whether through interceptor drones, air defense systems, or even defense against hypersonic missiles, it will be a high priority in the years to come”, he added.