Overview
- The Defence Ministry says about 194,000 letters have gone to 18-year-olds as part of the Wehrdienst-Modernisierungsgesetz.
- Each letter links via QR code to an online form that checks fitness and interest, which men must complete while women may opt in.
- Officials say it is too soon to judge the response because mailings and return deadlines are staggered, with firmer readouts due later this year.
- Applications to refuse military service rose to 2,656 in the first quarter, topping the full-year 2024 total, the federal family office reported.
- Berlin aims to expand the force to 260,000 troops by 2035 and build a 200,000-strong reserve, casting the outreach as guidance for teens rather than a return to conscription.