Germany’s Chief of Defence, Carsten Breuer, has instructed the German military to achieve full equipment readiness, including weapons and other essential materials, by 2029, according to a directive reviewed by Reuters.
This order is driven by concerns within NATO that Russia could potentially rebuild its military capacity to a level sufficient for an attack on NATO territory by 2029, according to estimates from Breuer and other senior military officials.
The directive, titled “Directive Priorities for the Bolstering of Readiness” and signed by Breuer on May 19, outlines how Germany will utilize funds freed up by the recent easing of the country’s debt brake to meet this readiness goal.
The German defence ministry has not yet commented on the directive.
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Breuer’s directive prioritizes the acquisition and development of specific weapons systems, aligning with priorities previously identified by NATO.
Key priorities include strengthening Germany’s air defenses, particularly to counter drone threats.
Last year, sources indicated that NATO would request Germany to significantly increase its air defense capabilities, encompassing both long-range systems like the Patriot and short-range systems.
Another priority is developing the capability to conduct long-range precision strikes, enabling the military to effectively engage targets beyond 500 kilometers (310 miles) and deep within enemy territory.
In addition to replenishing ammunition stocks, Breuer’s directive mandates increased stockpiling targets for all types of ammunition.
Other priorities include rapidly expanding Germany’s electronic warfare capabilities and establishing a robust system of “offensive and defensive capabilities” in space.
In a speech in mid-May, Army Chief Alfons Mais highlighted Russia’s rapid gains in firepower due to large-scale social and industrial mobilization.
“From 2029, at the latest, the Russian forces will be capable of a conventional aggression against NATO territory on a large scale,” he said. “But they can start testing us much sooner.”
