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For the First Time, Germany’s Aviation Strategy Has a Military Edge

The Warcast
Patrick Keller and Nicole Wiley
June 16, 2026

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Episode Notes:

After decades of shrinking defense budgets, Germany is undergoing a seismic shift in military ambition. Chancellor Merz has set a clear goal for the country: build the largest and most powerful military in Europe. The country's newly released aviation strategy — its first ever to incorporate military air power — signals that this transformation is underway.

Image: Airman 1st Class Gretchen McCarty via DVIDS