Ambitious framework nation: Germany in NATO. Bundeswehr capability planning and the "Framework Nations Concept"

Abstract

Berlin is pursuing ambitious plans for security and defence, with significant potential for the Bundeswehr and European partner militaries. In the long-term, the Bundeswehr could well become Europe's indispensable army, with Germany as a 'framework nation' contributing decisively to NATO's readiness. This will require the future German gov-ernment to accept an unaccustomed politico-military leadership role. It will also be necessary to increase defence spending for the long term.