Germany is considering reinstating mandatory military service by July 31, 2027, as voluntary recruitment efforts fall short of targets, Defense Committee Chairman Thomas Roewekamp said today [1, 2, 3, 4]. The country aims to boost its active troop strength from about 185,000 soldiers to at least 260,000 by 2035 [5, 1, 2, 3, 4].

A new voluntary military service system with compulsory registration for 18-year-old males was introduced in November 2025 [5, 1, 2, 3, 4]. However, between January and May 2026, only around 530 recruits enlisted after authorities contacted about 300,000 young men under the voluntary model [1, 2, 3, 4]. This recruitment pace is far below the needed numbers to meet Germany’s expansion goals.

“If Germany cannot reach its targets through the voluntary system, we will have to return to conscription,” Roewekamp said. He stressed the importance of making the decision by July 31, 2027 [2]. He also voiced concerns over the increasing proportion of career and contracted soldiers who operate critical military assets like fighter jets and air defense systems, underscoring the need for a broader base of enlisted troops [2].

The restructuring effort is partly driven by rising security threats from Russia and uncertainty over U.S. support. Roewekamp urged Europe to rearm independently from the United States, citing former President Donald Trump’s plans to reduce U.S. troops in Europe and unreliable supply commitments [2, 3].

Opposition among young Germans to mandatory service remains strong, with a net 46% opposing conscription in the 18-to-29 age group. Demonstrations against compulsory military service have taken place recently [2, 3]. Bela Breitner, a youth activist, said, “We don’t think that’s something that we have an interest in.” [3]

A mandatory physical examination for all 18-year-old males is expected to begin by mid-2027 as part of the assessment process [3]. Since conscription was suspended in 2011, Roewekamp noted there has been little public discussion about defense needs among the younger generation [2].

Germany’s government must decide on reinstating conscription by July 31, 2027, to ensure the military can meet its recruitment and force size objectives [1, 2, 3, 4].