Modern War, Old Weapons
Germany's push to strengthen its military faces a major challenge: sluggish procurement processes. Critics argue that the country's efforts to modernize the Bundeswehr could be undermined by bureaucratic delays. At the heart of this debate is the growing importance of inexpensive drones on modern battlefields. Recent conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and Iran, have illustrated how low-cost drone technology can effectively counter expensive military systems, raising questions about the value of traditional heavy weapons.
Germany committed to a significant military build-up after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. A €100 billion special fund was established to address urgent defense needs. On top of this, regular defense spending has steadily increased. In 2026, the budget reached €82.7 billion, with plans to raise it to €152 billion by 2029. These figures represent a major financial commitment, yet the effectiveness of such spending remains a point of contention.
The cancellation of the FCAS Franco-German fighter jet program in June 2026 has added to concerns about how defense funds are being allocated. The project, which had a price tag of over €100 billion, highlights the risks of long-term, costly defense contracts. Nico Lange, a defense analyst who previously worked for the German Defense Ministry, criticized the current approach. He described the military planning and procurement system as dysfunctional and argued that simply increasing the budget would not address underlying issues. "Unless you actually change the structures of military planning and procurement, nothing better will come of it," he told Web.de.
The Lessons of Ukraine
The war in Ukraine has reshaped Germany's understanding of modern warfare. Andreas Schwarz, a Social Democrat member of the Bundestag defense committee, recently visited Ukraine and observed a shift in priorities. Discussions about traditional weapons like these have become irrelevant in the context of the current conflict. Instead, Ukrainian forces have focused on drones, ammunition, IT modernization, and satellite technology. Schwarz noted that this experience has completely changed how war is being fought.
Legacy vs. Drone Dilemma
Max Becker, a policy fellow at the German Council on Foreign Relations (DGAP), argues that even though drones are gaining prominence, traditional weapons like tanks and artillery still play a vital role. According to Becker, capturing and holding territory often requires the firepower of heavy systems, in addition to the strategic advantages offered by drones. This creates a dilemma for defense planners, who must balance immediate needs with long-term investments.
Becker also pointed out that the Ukrainian military's increased reliance on drone technology is partly a result of necessity. Due to shortages of conventional artillery and tanks, Ukraine has had to adapt quickly. However, he added that the scenarios NATO and Germany are preparing for are different from those in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. NATO countries have access to a broader range of equipment, which could affect how drones and legacy systems are used in future conflicts.
Andreas Schwarz, while acknowledging the continued importance of tanks, questioned whether Germany still needs them in the quantities it currently does. He raised the possibility of complementing or even optimizing traditional weapons with smaller, more flexible units. "But the question is: Do we still need them in that quantity?" Modern drone technology is not only more advanced but also easier to control. Some military drones can now be operated using smartphone apps, a far cry from the specialized computer systems once required.
This technological shift presents both opportunities and challenges. While drones offer a flexible and affordable option, they also require changes to military doctrine and infrastructure. Schwarz believes that Germany and its defense industry have recognized this new reality, but he also emphasized that implementation will take time. The country still has to navigate complex procurement processes and adapt its military strategy to incorporate emerging technologies effectively.
The procurement problem remains a major obstacle. Despite increased defense spending, the pace of acquiring and integrating new technologies is still constrained by bureaucratic hurdles. This situation highlights the need for structural changes in how the Bundeswehr plans, purchases, and deploys military equipment. Without such reforms, Germany may struggle to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving battlefield environment.