German Military Calls for War Economy Amid Rising Russian Threat
Germany’s Armed Forces Association (DBwV) has urged the country to place its defence industry on a war footing in response to a growing Russian threat and Europe’s perceived vulnerability.
Association head André Wüstner warned that Russia could confront NATO sooner than previously expected and called for defence manufacturers to expand production capacity and adopt shift work, steps he described as necessary for a “war economy” if tensions continue escalating. He cited Europe’s dependence on an unreliable Washington under Donald Trump as contributing to a widening “deterrence gap.”
Wüstner also highlighted the economic boost Russia is receiving from the ongoing conflict in Iran. Rising oil and gas prices have dramatically increased Kremlin revenues, providing Moscow with fresh resources to intensify attacks on infrastructure and civilian targets, and potentially emboldening hybrid or military actions on NATO’s eastern flank.
The conflict has also strained military aid to Ukraine. Patriot anti-aircraft missiles intended for Kyiv are being redirected to Iran, adding pressure on European allies, including Germany, which lacks sufficient air defence systems to secure its own airspace.
According to Wüstner, the Iran war should not distract Europe from the immediate threat posed by Russia. He emphasized the need for urgent action to close the “deterrence gap” and strengthen Germany’s defensive capabilities before Moscow exploits its advantage further.