NOTHING
EXPLODING
BUT COSTS?

Germany is rearming. Fast.

In 2026, the defense budget hits over €108 billion. The highest level since the Cold War. And this is only the beginning.

By 2029, spending will surge to €153 billion. Nearly triple the 2023 level. A political decision with strategic weight.

85% percent for legacy systems. 15% for innovation.
Billions for F-35s, Chinooks, Arrow 3, and upgraded classics. A small slice to drones, AI, and next-gen capabilities.

The past dominates. The future waits.

PLEASE
VOTE

Europe talks security, but avoids hard choices.
This isn’t abstract policy talk.
It’s about power, priorities, and preparedness.
Where do you stand?

Are we about to waste hundreds of billions for tanks and fighter jets that will come too late and be outdated for modern warfare?

Yes
No

Where should the bulk of European military budgets be allocated in the future?

(multiple choice: up to 3 answers)

Conventional ground forces and infantry
Air power
Air defense (fighter jets, missiles)
Naval forces and maritime capabilities
Unmanned systems and drones (air, land, sea)
Space
Cyber and electronic warfare

Lucia morselli

Peter Laier

Would be a great topic for the Institute to discuss further

NOTHING EXPLODING BUT COSTS?

Germany is rearming. Fast.

PLEASE VOTE

Are we about to waste hundreds of billions for tanks and fighter jets that will come too late and be outdated for modern warfare?

Where should the bulk of European military budgets be allocated in the future?

NOTHING
EXPLODING
BUT COSTS?

PLEASE
VOTE