Due to the growing threat from Russia, NATO plans to increase troop numbers by 250,000, according to a report from Welt. Leaked unpublished plans reveal that NATO countries agreed on the “minimum necessary potential” for defense against Russian aggression in spring 2024.
The documents suggest that the number of combat brigades will rise from 82 to 131, with each brigade consisting of about 5,000 troops. The number of “combat corps” will expand from 6 to 15, and division headquarters will increase from 24 to 38.
In addition, NATO plans to significantly boost its arsenal, including air defense systems and helicopters. Ground-based anti-aircraft installations will grow from 293 to 1,467, while the number of helicopters will increase from 90 to 104.
Welt highlights that the burden will be shared among the 32 NATO member countries, based on their “wealth” and population. For instance, Germany may be required to establish five to six additional combat brigades and assign personnel to a new combat corps.
