Germany's Military Spending to Hit 2% of GDP by 2024: Fulfilling NATO's Demands with Force.

In a context marked by the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Germany is preparing to significantly increase its military spending. The goal of dedicating 2% of GDP to military expenditures by 2024, set by NATO, will now be achieved as early as next year, marking a major turnaround.
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CH-47 Chinook helicopter as part of equipment intended to modernize the German army. (Picture source Boeing Defense )

The "regular" budget of the German Ministry of Defense is expected to increase by €1.7 billion in 2024, rising from €50.1 billion to €51.8 billion. Although this falls short of the 2% GDP target, this amount will be supplemented by additional funds. The Bundeswehr's modernization fund, with €100 billion, will contribute €19.2 billion, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Development will provide €4 billion, in line with NATO criteria. In total, German military spending will amount to €75 billion.

It should be noted that this situation will be temporary as the Bundeswehr's modernization fund is not unlimited. Therefore, future budgets of the Ministry of Defense will need to follow a more stable trajectory to sustainably reach the 2% GDP target.

Importantly, the German military budget will be the only one spared by the austerity measures announced by the Minister of Finance, Christian Lindner, for the upcoming fiscal year. The government coalition has approved these measures aimed at achieving €30 billion in savings in 2024 to reduce the public deficit to 1.75% of GDP. All other ministries will contribute, while the Defense budget will remain preserved.

It remains to be seen how German lawmakers will react to this budget proposal. In the meantime, they have already approved the purchase of 60 CH-47F Chinook heavy transport helicopters from American company Boeing, for a total amount of €8 billion, which is €2 billion more than initially planned. Additional expenses related to infrastructure will also be incurred as part of this Bundeswehr modernization.

In the last few years, Germany has undertaken a series of military equipment purchases to modernize its army and enhance its operational capabilities. Among these acquisitions are the CH-47F Chinook heavy transport helicopters, which play a crucial role in the transportation of troops, equipment, and heavy cargo. Their high lifting capacity and robustness make them valuable assets for rapid deployment operations, on-field logistics support, and essential material transportation. These helicopters can also be deployed for search and rescue missions, offering operational versatility.

In the field of armored combat vehicles, Germany has acquired the Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) Puma. Designed to provide enhanced mobility and increased protection, the Puma offers a versatile platform for troop transport and engaging ground targets. Equipped with active defense systems, cannons, and anti-tank missiles, it provides advanced combat capabilities on the battlefield, thus improving the safety of soldiers involved in ground operations.

Regarding naval warfare, Germany has focused on modernizing its fleet by acquiring Baden-Württemberg-class frigates. These versatile ships are equipped with advanced air defense and anti-submarine warfare systems. They play a crucial role in safeguarding maritime routes, coastal defense, and deterrence missions. The Baden-Württemberg-class frigates allow Germany to enhance its naval presence and participate in international maritime operations.

In the aviation domain, Germany has invested in the acquisition of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets. These versatile aircraft are utilized for ensuring air superiority, reconnaissance, and ground attack missions. With exceptional maneuverability, high-speed capabilities, and a wide range of advanced armaments, the Eurofighter Typhoon strengthens Germany's air power, ensuring the protection of national airspace, and contributing to NATO operations.

Lastly, Germany has also procured missile defense systems such as the Patriot system to enhance its capacity to intercept and neutralize ballistic missile threats. This system provides effective defense against short, medium, and long-range missiles, protecting strategic areas, military bases, and civilian populations from airborne attacks.

These acquisitions of military equipment demonstrate Germany's ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces, enhance defense capabilities, address current security challenges, and maintain its commitment to international operations.