Germany released its first‑ever defence strategy, aiming to become Europe’s conventional defence linchpin. Defence minister Boris Pistorius presented the paper, noting the shift from post‑WWII reluctance to a proactive security stance as Russia’s aggression intensifies and US commitment wanes. It also vows to convert idle auto plants into arms production lines.

It outlines a two‑phase force build‑up: first, make the existing 185,000‑strong Bundeswehr operational despite depleted ammo and aging kit; second, expand professional ranks to 260,000 by 2035 and add 200,000 reserves. By 2039 Berlin seeks technological superiority, prioritising long-range precision strike missiles and a mix of high‑end systems with cheap drones proven in Ukraine, including stealth‑capable cruise options.

Industry analysts see procurement reforms and repurposed car factories as key to meeting the timetable, but the public version offers few details on financing or recruitment solutions. Persistent bureaucracy and past delays raise doubts whether Germany can outspend rivals on next‑gen kit. Rheinmetall could win orders locally, and the strategy signals a market shift toward defence contracts worth billions, reshaping Europe’s arms supply chain.