Germany Plans €377 Billion Military Upgrade to Lead European Defense

Germany is embarking on an ambitious military upgrade plan valued at over 377 billion euros to transform the Bundeswehr into the strongest conventional army in Europe and a central pillar of European defense. The comprehensive 39-page procurement strategy encompasses more than 320 new projects across land, air, sea, space, and cyber domains, with a significant portion of funds allocated to domestic defense manufacturers such as Rheinmetall, which is involved in projects worth more than 88 billion euros. Key acquisitions include advanced combat vehicles, air defense systems like the Skyranger 30 and IRIS-T missiles, unmanned aerial and marine drones, and 15 US-made F-35 fighter jets. The plan also prioritizes space capabilities, with over 14 billion euros allocated for military satellite communications and reconnaissance systems. This military expansion aligns with Chancellor Friedrich Merz's goal to have the Bundeswehr war-ready by 2029, amid concerns over regional security threats, and is supported by reforms allowing long-term defense spending beyond previous budget limits. The German defense industry is simultaneously undergoing modernization to increase production efficiency and meet the demand for advanced military equipment, highlighting Germany's strategic commitment to defense self-reliance and industrial revitalization.