Henning Otte Set to Become Bundeswehr Commissioner

The Bundestag is poised to elect Henning Otte, a CDU politician, as the new Commissioner for the Armed Forces. Otte, an experienced reserve officer and defense expert, will succeed SPD's Eva Högl, as agreed by the coalition.

His appointment comes amidst discussions about the Bundeswehr's condition, highlighted in Högl's 2024 annual report, which called for improvements in both equipment and personnel. Otte is well-connected within the defense industry and advocates for military support to Ukraine.

He supports the creation of a Home Defense Division and a gradual return to conscription. The role of the Commissioner is significant, tasked with safeguarding soldiers' rights and addressing military issues.

As Otte takes this influential position, defense spending is expected to increase, free from budget constraints, with the aim of expanding troop numbers beyond 200,000 soldiers.