Defense Minister Boris Pistorius Demands ⁤Speed and Funding for⁢ Bundeswehr

The‌ Minister of Defense demands speed and money in the further development of the Bundeswehr, citing “political responsibility of the state” as ⁣necessary.

Bundeswehr Funding Gap

Defense Minister Boris Pistorius ⁢has called​ on ⁣the coalition⁣ to⁤ agree on adequate funding ​for military capability,⁢ with the⁢ Bundeswehr requiring around 58 billion euros in 2025 to rapidly⁣ close capability​ gaps. ‌However, ⁢the current allocation⁣ is around 52 billion euros, leaving a shortfall of almost‌ six billion euros.

Responsibility and Awareness

Pistorius expects all actors to be aware of their responsibility in the ⁢current situation,⁤ emphasizing that “it’s about the political responsibility of the ‍state.” He‌ acknowledges the difficult ⁢negotiations ⁣in the coalition but stresses that some actors may not be aware of the seriousness of the situation or believe they can ⁣overcome ‌challenges with tactical games.

Impact of​ Funding ⁢Gap

The funding gap will affect around 100 projects for⁤ the Bundeswehr, including the procurement ⁣of material ‍and the development ​of long-range ⁤precision⁤ weapons. A further installment ⁤of the Puma⁢ infantry fighting vehicle and ​urgently‍ needed ammunition are also impacted.

Critical‌ Point

Pistorius warns that⁤ the Bundeswehr is at a critical point, with gaps widening again as⁢ the threat increases. He emphasizes the need to increase the‍ budget, ⁢acknowledging the financial ⁢challenges involved but stressing the importance of ‍setting priorities.

Threats and Challenges

The Minister highlights the growing⁢ threats, including disinformation campaigns, cyber ​attacks, and⁤ espionage on critical ⁤infrastructure. Russia is ‍also massively arming itself militarily, with a projected 1.5 million soldiers and a war economy that invests six percent in arms and defense.

Reality and Expectations

Pistorius ​emphasizes that ⁢”Russian‍ industry produces more ​weapons and ammunition in ‌three months than ⁢the entire ​European Union does in a year.” He warns that Putin is ready and willing to use⁣ his armed forces, stressing that “that’s the⁤ reality we‍ face.”