German Military Faces Challenges in Recruiting and Retaining IT Experts

The German armed forces are intensifying efforts to strengthen their digital capabilities by attracting more IT professionals. Despite a surge in applications, the Bundeswehr continues to grapple with difficulties in both recruiting and retaining qualified specialists in information technology and related fields.

Recent figures show that interest in joining the Bundeswehr is on the rise. Over 51,000 applications for military service were received last year, marking a 19% increase compared to the previous year. Civilian roles saw an even larger jump, with over 88,000 applications--a 41% rise. In total, the Bundeswehr processed approximately 139,500 applications, representing a significant boost in recruitment activity.

However, increased application numbers have not fully translated into higher staffing levels. Of the 51,000 military applications, only about 20,300 led to actual appointments, which is an 8% increase from the prior year but still falls short of the personnel expansion goals set by the defense ministry. Retention remains a critical concern, as for every four new hires in 2024, one service member left prematurely, often within the first six months of duty. In total, an estimated 16,000 soldiers parted ways with the Bundeswehr last year, either due to contract expiration or early resignation.

At the end of 2024, the Bundeswehr's personnel numbers remained nearly unchanged at approximately 181,150 service members. Women currently make up 13.6% of this workforce, a figure well below the national average in other sectors. Meanwhile, the reserve force consists of roughly 49,200 individuals. Despite these numbers, the Bundeswehr faces increasing pressure to expand its ranks, particularly in light of NATO commitments and new defense requirements.

Preliminary assessments suggest that achieving a workforce of around 460,000 service members--including 260,000 active soldiers and 200,000 reservists--will be necessary to meet future security needs. This significant growth is planned to extend into the 2030s. Since the suspension of compulsory military service in 2011, the Bundeswehr has relied on voluntary service, with contracts ranging from seven to 23 months. As of August 2025, about 10,700 individuals were serving voluntarily, including over 1,800 women.

Reforms to the military service system are set to take effect in 2026. Under the new framework, all men turning 18 will be required to complete an assessment questionnaire regarding their willingness to serve, while women can participate voluntarily. Mandatory examinations for 18-year-old men will be introduced, and if the desired troop numbers are not met by 2035, a selective draft from the pool of eligible candidates could be reinstated. The goal is to expand the reserve force primarily through these new measures.

Within the Bundeswehr, the Cyber and Information Space Command (CIR) has emerged as a focal point for digital transformation. Established in 2017, the CIR is the youngest and smallest of the military branches, with around 13,700 positions distributed across 25 locations. Its functions span IT, electronic warfare, cybersecurity, and operational communications, all of which depend heavily on skilled IT personnel. The CIR, as well as the Army, Navy, and Air Force, are actively seeking to increase their IT capabilities through both internal development and external recruitment.

The demand for IT professionals is particularly high among non-commissioned officers and those pursuing mid-level technical careers. Officers specializing in cyber and IT roles are also needed, with opportunities to pursue relevant university degrees within the Bundeswehr. Training is tailored to previous experience, with comprehensive education provided through military academies and partnerships with civilian institutions. The Bundeswehr emphasizes that while prior IT knowledge is advantageous, it is not a prerequisite, as extensive training and upskilling are available.

Due to the sensitive nature of national security and ongoing operational requirements, the Bundeswehr does not disclose detailed statistics on open IT positions or specifics regarding training content. However, officials acknowledge the need for more flexible and transparent recruitment processes, as well as strategies to improve retention rates, such as clearer communication of expectations and more location-based service options.

As Germany continues to modernize its defense infrastructure and adapt to evolving security threats, addressing the shortage of IT specialists remains a strategic priority for the Bundeswehr. Success in these efforts will be crucial to meeting both national and alliance defense objectives in the coming years.