A 20% record increase in applications to join the German armed forces

The German armed forces received significantly more applications in the first quarter of the year compared to the same period last year.

By the end of March, approximately 22,700 people had applied to join the armed forces, an increase of about 20%.

New recruitment also increased: with nearly 5,800 new hires, the number is 10% higher than the previous year.

The Bundeswehr currently number around 185,400 personnel, as this is about 3,300 more than at the same time last year.

However, the number is slightly lower than the previous month, as the Ministry of Defense cites seasonal effects, as many personnel retire as planned in the spring.

Annual comparisons also show an increase in voluntary military service, and currently, approximately 12,700 young men and women are performing this service, an increase of 13.5% compared to the previous year.

According to the German Armed Forces, the increase in recruitment is due to the security situation in Europe.

In accordance with NATO directives, Germany must significantly increase its troop numbers by 2035, aiming for 260,000 active personnel and a reserve force of 200,000.

Meanwhile, the military service remains voluntary for the time being, however, males born in 2008 or later are required to complete a questionnaire and report to recruitment offices.

For females, its voluntary, and anyone can refuse military service on grounds of conscience.