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Germany prepares for war with Russia and changes its military strategy

Wed, April 22, 2026 - 17:20
3 min
Boris Pistorius reveals plans to build the strongest army in Europe
Germany prepares for war with Russia and changes its military strategy Photo: German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (Getty Images)
Germany has presented its first-ever military strategy, in which Russia is officially identified as the main security threat in Europe. Berlin plans to turn the Bundeswehr into the continent’s strongest conventional army, according to Deutsche Welle.

Threat from Russia and readiness for an attack

According to the report, Pistorius said the Kremlin under Vladimir Putin views military force as a legitimate tool for advancing its interests and is preparing for a direct confrontation with NATO.

The document states that Russia is already waging a hybrid war against the West, using espionage, sabotage and cyberattacks.

The minister stressed that Moscow is creating all the preconditions for an armed attack on Alliance countries.

Under the new concept, at least 460,000 German soldiers together with allies must be ready to repel possible aggression.

Bundeswehr development and the army of the future

Germany aims to achieve technological superiority and significantly expand its military capabilities. The strategy envisions that future wars will be fought simultaneously with high technology and mass systems.

Priorities include the development of artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and robotics alongside the use of low-cost drones.

Special attention is being paid to achieving information superiority in space and cyberspace.

The Bundeswehr also plans to significantly increase the number of long-range precision systems and build up multi-layered air defense.

A separate element of the strategy is strengthening the role of the reserve, which is to be fully equipped for rapid deployment if needed.

Role of the United States and nuclear deterrence

Despite the fact that the United States remains an indispensable partner for NATO, the strategy prioritises increasing the burden on the German military itself.

Berlin has officially confirmed its readiness to take on greater responsibility within the Alliance and to continue participating in nuclear deterrence mechanisms.

The authors of the document emphasise that in today’s conditions, there are no longer any safe rear areas, meaning that enemy targets include not only military facilities but also society and the economy as a whole.

Threats from Russia and Berlin’s support for Kyiv

Recently, the German Foreign Ministry urgently summoned the Russian ambassador over direct threats from the Kremlin against targets on German territory. Berlin interpreted Moscow’s actions as an attempt to intimidate and undermine European unity.

At the same time, Germany continues to systematically strengthen Ukraine’s defence capabilities. In particular, Boris Pistorius announced the launch of a large-scale air defence support package for Ukraine, designed to last several years and ensure long-term protection of its skies.

In addition, Berlin and Kyiv have agreed to strengthen Ukraine’s long-range strike capabilities. For this purpose, the countries are establishing a joint defence enterprise that will allow Ukraine to more effectively carry out long-distance strikes.

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