Germany and Ukraine have signed new defence deals covering missiles, drones and air defence. Berlin also backed Kyiv’s EU bid and called for the release of EU funds to strengthen Ukraine’s long-term security.
Germany says its troop deployment in Lithuania shows commitment to NATO’s eastern flank. A new brigade aims to strengthen deterrence against Russia and reinforce security in the Baltic region.
Germany says shipping through the Strait of Hormuz must remain free and toll-free under international law. The call comes after Iran agreed to reopen the key route during a two-week ceasefire.
Germany now requires men aged 17–45 to seek approval for stays abroad over three months under its new military service law. The rule supports efforts to track availability as the country works to expand troop numbers.
German companies are increasingly exploring defence opportunities as geopolitical tensions drive demand. A new survey shows rising interest, with more firms planning to enter the sector in the coming years.
Rheinmetall and Boeing Defence Australia have partnered to offer the MQ-28 Ghost Bat to the Bundeswehr as a collaborative combat aircraft. Rheinmetall will act as system integrator, with the platform targeted for deployment by 2029.
Germany’s parliament has approved €540 million to buy kamikaze drones for the army, with more funding possible. The systems, shaped by lessons from Ukraine, will first equip Germany’s Lithuania Brigade.
Germany’s defence minister has criticised Donald Trump for treating Vladimir Putin “like a buddy” and cutting support for Ukraine. Boris Pistorius said backing Kyiv remains vital as Russia’s war enters its fourth year.
Germany has said it wants to take part in a new US-led “Board of Peace” for Gaza announced by Donald Trump. Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said Berlin is ready to assume responsibility in the body, which is meant to oversee Gaza’s transitional administration and support the next phase of the peace process.
A German reconnaissance unit has arrived in Greenland as part of a Danish-led mission to examine NATO’s ability to defend the Arctic. The deployment brings together European partners to assess logistics, surveillance, and possible military contributions amid growing geopolitical tensions over the region.
Germany’s military has begun sending questionnaires to 18-year-olds as part of the country’s new military service programme. The forms are the first step in assessing interest and suitability for service, as Berlin looks to increase troop numbers under a law that came into force on January 1.
NATO has begun moving around 10,000 troops, vehicles and equipment into Germany for its largest military exercise this year. The drills involve forces from 11 countries and are meant to show the alliance’s ability to move quickly across Europe, even as internal tensions grow over Greenland.
Germany has sent a small military team to Greenland as European countries step up support for Denmark amid US pressure over the Arctic territory. The deployment is part of wider joint exercises aimed at improving security cooperation and strengthening NATO’s presence in the region.
Germany and India have agreed to expand cooperation in the defence sector during talks in Ahmedabad. A declaration of intent was signed during Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s visit, with plans including submarine construction in India and wider cooperation covering defence, technology, jobs, and critical resources.
Germany and France have again postponed a decision on the Future Combat Air System, with no new timeline set. The governments cited wider foreign and security talks and unresolved industry disputes, leaving the future of Europe’s planned next-generation air combat system uncertain.
