Germany Plans Full Military Readiness by 2029 Amid Russia Threat
Chief of Defence of Germany, General Carsten Breuer, has directed the country’s armed forces to be fully equipped by 2029. The decision, outlined in a document signed on 19 May, highlights concerns that Russia could be ready to launch attacks on NATO territory within the next five years.
New Directive Sets Clear Priorities
The document, titled Directive Priorities for the Bolstering of Readiness, outlines the key areas the military will focus on. These include acquiring essential weapons and material, improving air defences, and boosting ammunition stockpiles. Breuer’s directive follows Germany’s move in March to relax its strict debt rules, freeing up funds for defence investment.
Germany’s defence ministry has not yet commented on the directive. However, the document aligns with broader NATO strategies, reflecting concerns about regional stability and the growing military strength of Russia.
Air Defences and Precision Strikes Take Centre Stage
Among Breuer’s top priorities is the urgent strengthening of Germany’s air defence systems. This includes intercepting drones and bolstering both short and long-range missile systems, such as the Patriot system. Last year, sources revealed that NATO had urged Germany to expand its air defences significantly.
Another key focus is the ability to carry out deep precision strikes. This would enable German forces to hit targets more than 500 kilometres away, well behind enemy lines. Increasing these capabilities is seen as vital to counter future threats effectively.
Boosting Ammunition and Space Defence Capabilities
The directive also orders higher targets for ammunition stockpiling. This includes not only replenishing current reserves but also setting higher goals across all ammunition types.
Furthermore, Germany aims to strengthen its role in electronic warfare. The document stresses the need to develop both offensive and defensive space capabilities. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to ensure the military is prepared for future conflicts that may involve advanced technologies.
Earlier in May, Army Chief Alfons Mais warned that Russia is rapidly boosting its military firepower through a large-scale mobilisation of its society and industry. He cautioned that by 2029, Russia might be able to launch a full-scale conventional attack on NATO. However, he also noted that smaller tests of NATO’s resolve could occur even sooner.
with inputs from Reuters