German defence ministry sees high questionnaire response but only 530 enlist for new military service
Six months after Germany reintroduced military registration, 96% of young men filled out mandatory questionnaires, but only 530 have signed up for service in 2026. Broader recruitment saw double-digit growth.
High response, low initial commitment
Roughly 298,200 questionnaires have been sent to 18-year-old men and women since January, the German defence ministry reported on 25 June 2026. For men, answering is mandatory under the suspended military service obligation; 96% complied (the remaining 4% face possible fines). Women were not required to respond, and only 4% did.
Despite the high male participation, the number who have actually committed to the new voluntary "Wehrdienst" in 2026 is 530. Defence officials note that the figure reflects only those already medically cleared and under contract (not those still in training or awaiting assessment).
- New military service law enters force; questionnaire mailing begins to all 18-year-olds.
- Cutoff for interim report: 298,200 questionnaires sent; 96% male response; 530 enlistments.
- Universal muster of all 18-year-old men becomes mandatory.
Interest signals and delayed availability
About one in five male respondents expressed interest in military service. However, two-thirds of interested individuals stated they could start only in one to two years because of ongoing schooling or vocational training. Of the 1,500 candidates already put through medical and selection procedures, 80% were found fit for service. A further 600 assessments are scheduled.
Critics warn the low immediate commitment figure invites misinterpretation, while the ministry stresses that many potential recruits are simply not yet available.
- Men
- 96 %
- Women
- 4 %
Recruitment beyond the questionnaire
Separate from the questionnaire drive, around 10,000 volunteers have been registered for the 2026 intake under the new service model, an 8% increase on the previous year. Classic recruitment channels also posted gains: 38,500 applications (up 24%) and 11,000 hires (up 13%).
The registration is working smoothly.
Long-term targets and the conscription backstop
The 2026 law aims to expand the Bundeswehr from roughly 184,000 active soldiers to between 255,000 and 270,000 by 2035. Annual benchmarks are built into the legislation, and if voluntary recruitment fails to meet them, a demand-based conscription ("Bedarfswehrpflicht") could be activated. The first universal muster of all 18-year-old men is scheduled for 1 July 2027.
