Germany has announced plans to almost triple its yearly defense spending to $175 billion by 2029. This big increase will help Germany meet NATO’s target of spending 3.5% of its GDP on defense. The move comes at a time when global tensions are rising, and the war in Ukraine has made countries rethink their security priorities.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s government says the extra money will not only strengthen the country’s military but also push for innovation and support new technology. Berlin wants to focus on modern tools like artificial intelligence (AI) and smart defense systems.
To achieve this, the government is backing new companies and startups such as Helsing, ARX Robotics, and Swarm Biotactics, which are working on cutting-edge defense solutions like AI-powered drones and unmanned vehicles.
To speed up progress, Germany is introducing a new law to make it easier to buy modern defense technology. The new rules will help local and EU-based companies by cutting red tape and making the process simpler and faster.
Traditional defense contractors like Rheinmetall will now work closely with these new tech firms to build advanced systems for the future.
The German government believes that investing more in defense will not only make the country safer but also boost its industrial growth and give it more control over its own security.
By combining old and new industries, Berlin hopes to build a strong, modern defense sector that creates jobs, drives innovation, and keeps the country ready for any challenge.