Germany is planning a huge arms order: 3,500 new tanks for NATO!

Germany is planning a huge arms order: 3,500 new tanks for NATO!

In the midst of the current geopolitical tensions, the federal government is examining a gigantic arms contract that is intended to significantly strengthen the defense capability of Germany and NATO. According to a report by World Up to 3,500 new tanks are being discussed, although the decision on the order could be made by the end of 2023. The plan is to set up up to seven combat brigades, which will be equipped with modern combat vehicles.

The order volume could reach an astronomical 25 billion euros, with, for example, up to 1,000 Leopard 2 main battle tanks and up to 2,500 GTK Boxer wheeled tanks to be procured from leading manufacturers such as KDNS, Rheinmetall and ARTEC. It is possible that the Bundestag will approve the project this year.

Strategic securities in NATO

These plans are part of a comprehensive NATO rearmament program described as the largest since the Cold War. How Review online reports, NATO aims to significantly improve its deterrence and defense capabilities in the coming years. New targets for member states' military capabilities were set at a meeting of defense ministers in Brussels.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte described the program as “historic.” The specifications were increased by around 30 percent in order to meet the current threats from Russia, with specific planning goals being classified as top secret.

Defense spending in focus

To meet these new demands, an increase in defense spending is considered essential. Germany plans to increase the share of defense spending in gross domestic product by a steady 0.2 percentage points per year over the next five to seven years. The aim is to achieve a rate of 3.5 percent in 2032, which corresponds to an additional burden of around 45 billion euros per percentage point, according to a report by daily news emerges.

In addition, Federal Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has announced that the Bundeswehr will be increased by up to 60,000 active soldiers. This is in line with Germany's commitment to meet the new NATO capacity targets agreed at the June summit.

These medium and long-term plans could not only significantly increase Germany's military capabilities, but also strengthen the entire security architecture in Europe. Given the current challenges and geopolitical developments, it remains to be seen how quickly these ambitious projects can be implemented.