Germany accelerates military buildup amid Russian resurgence concerns
Germany has set a 2029 deadline to fully equip its military, driven by concerns over potential threats from Russia. By then, the Kremlin is expected to have rebuilt its capacity, posing a risk to NATO countries.
According to Reuters, General Carsten Breuer, the head of the German armed forces, has issued a directive requiring the complete arming of the Bundeswehr with weapons and equipment by 2029. This is due to concerns that Russia might threaten NATO territory by then.
The "Directive on Priorities for Enhancing Readiness" document was signed on 19 May. It contains a comprehensive action plan to prepare the German armed forces for the future.
The Russian threat: How Germany is preparing
The directive reflects a common assessment by Breuer and NATO officials that by 2029, Russia could rebuild its military to threaten the alliance's borders. Funding for the plan is expected to come from the relaxation of Germany's "debt brake" in March, allowing for increased defence spending.
The document outlines procurement priorities based on NATO recommendations. The foremost priority is enhancing German air defence, with a special focus on countering drones. NATO is expected to demand a significant increase, at least fourfold, of air defence systems in Berlin, ranging from long-range platforms such as the Patriot to short-range interceptor systems.
Alongside strengthening air defence, the directive plans to develop capabilities for executing precise strikes on targets over 300 miles away. Breuer also highlighted the urgent need to replenish ammunition stocks and increase storage for all types.
Other key development areas include modernising electronic warfare systems and building solid offensive and defensive capabilities in space.
Will Russia attack NATO?
For years, there has been speculation about a potential conflict between Russia and NATO. These concerns intensified after Putin invaded Ukraine, which has now persisted for over three years. Despite ongoing peace talks, no progress has been made. Meanwhile, reports are suggesting Russia may launch an offensive. A military and security expert, Nico Lange, mentioned in an interview with "Bild" that Putin's forces plan to strike in three areas: Sumy, Kharkiv, and Dnipropetrovsk.
As long as Russia cannot breach Ukraine, it is unlikely to attack members of the North Atlantic Alliance. However, Russian provocations, such as those in the Baltic Sea, clearly indicate that Moscow's plans to destabilise the international situation go beyond Ukraine's borders. This suggests that Central and Eastern European countries must be ready for all possible scenarios.
