NATO agrees on largest armament program since Cold War

NATO has agreed on the largest rearmament program since the Cold War, the news agency dpa writes. It provides for a huge expansion of defense capacities in the coming years.

As the agency notes, thus NATO is responding to the perceived threat from Russia. The highest priority is given to capabilities such as long-range missile systems, air defense, and mobile ground forces. The decision to implement the program was made during a Brussels meeting of NATO defense ministers.

The arms buildup plan includes new objectives for military capability development, clearly indicating each ally’s contribution to future joint deterrence and defense efforts. The necessary capabilities have been determined based on new defense programs, taking into account intelligence assessments that suggest Russia—despite events in Ukraine—could be prepared for armed conflict with NATO countries in a few years.

The specific objectives of the new planning remain classified to keep NATO as unpredictable as possible for Russia. However, the requirements for military capacity have previously increased by about 30%.

The newly planned defense spending targets also align with current deficits and planning goals. NATO defense ministers are set to meet on June 5 in Brussels. Upon arrival, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth emphasized that NATO countries should contribute to strengthening the alliance’s collective defense efforts and should not rely solely on the United States. He stated that Washington is ready to assist member states in overcoming emerging threats but also expects allies to intensify their efforts in this regard.

U.S. President Donald Trump has repeatedly reaffirmed his intention to ensure that NATO member countries increase their defense spending to at least 5% of GDP in recent months.