# Germany: Bundeswehr troop numbers reach 13-year high

https://mins.news/en/item/24315

- DW, 2026-08-17 15:30 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.dw.com/en/germany-bundeswehr-troop-numbers-reach-13-year-high/a-78400706?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf

> Germany’s Defense Ministry says the Bundeswehr had about 186,700 soldiers on July 31, around 3,700 more than a year earlier and a 2% increase. A new questionnaire for young people has led 2,630 applicants to assessments and 865 to sign up for active service.

## Related coverage

- [Bundeswehr strength hits highest level in 13 years — German Defense Ministry](https://mins.news/en/item/24153) — TASS, 2026-08-17