Germany Fast-Tracks Defence Procurement Amid Rising Security Concerns

Germany's cabinet has approved a draft law to expedite defence procurement and military base construction in response to heightened security threats from Russia. This initiative is part of Germany's broader commitment to enhance its defence capabilities and meet NATO's increased spending requirements.

The proposed legislation will relax mandatory tendering rules for defence contracts, allowing for faster acquisition and enabling the Bundeswehr to prioritize critical defence priorities. Large contracts will no longer require division into smaller tenders, and the procurement threshold will significantly rise.

Environmental standards will see some loosening, particularly in military infrastructure projects such as barracks. With a timeline set for this legislation to be in force for 10 years, Germany aims to reach a defence expenditure of 3.5% of GDP by 2029.

(With inputs from agencies.)