Germany’s new military registration program has contacted nearly 300,000 potential recruits but only secured 530 volunteers, a fraction of the numbers needed to meet Defense Minister Boris Pistorius’ goal of increasing the military’s size to 460,000 by 2035. While most males responded to the questionnaire, only 4% of women did, and overall interest in immediate service is low. If the program does not succeed, a decision to return to compulsory military service could be made in 2027.

• Germany’s Bundeswehr contacted 298,200 potential recruits through a new registration program, but only 530 volunteered.
• The Defense Ministry aims to increase the military size to 460,000 by 2035, requiring significant recruitment.
• 96% of males contacted responded to the optional online questionnaire, while only 4% of females did.
• Traditional recruitment methods saw 38,500 applications, a 24% increase compared to the same period in 2025.
• A potential return to compulsory military service is being considered if the current recruitment program fails, with a decision possible in 2027.