Overview

• Generalinspekteur Carsten Breuer called the uptick a clear step forward and said the new pathway could lead more recruits to commit for longer terms.
• Defence Minister Boris Pistorius reported nearly 13,000 sign-ups by August toward a 15,000 target for the year.
• The federal cabinet has approved a draft Wehrdienst law that would take effect on January 1, 2026 if the Bundestag agrees.
• The Bundeswehr says about 20,000 training places are available and is weighing the use of reservists as additional instructors.
• Politicians from the Union question whether a voluntary model with registration and medical examinations will yield enough recruits.