German armed forces see 28 per cent surge in recruits in NATO defence boost

Germany's armed forces reported a 28 per cent surge in soldier recruits from January to late July, compared with the same period last year, bolstering plans to boost NATO defences in response to what it sees as an increased threat from Russia.

The Defence Ministry said on Thursday more than 13,700 people had joined the Bundeswehr - the army, air force, navy and other forces - in that period, in what it said was the steepest rise for years.

Germany wants to have 260,000 active soldiers by the 2030s, from 183,000 now, to meet new NATO force targets and strengthen its defences - part of a planned surge in military spending underpinned by this year's decision to loosen budget constraints.

Interest in joining the armed forces also rose, with initial consultations rising by 11 per cent and applications by eight per cent, while civilian sector applications jumped by 31 per cent, the ministry said.

Germany abolished conscription in 2011, leaving the country without a systematic registry of eligible recruits.

From next year, the government plans to require all men turning 18 to complete a digital survey on their interest in joining the army.

(Reporting by Riham Alkousaa; Editing by Andrew Heavens)