Germany Forms Cyber Army in Response to Digital Threats

In response to growing cyber threats, Germany has announced the creation of a specialized cyber unit within its armed forces. The decision was announced by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.

The new Cyber and Information Domain Service (CIR) will become the fourth independent branch of the German military, alongside the Army, Navy, and Air Force. All branches will report to a unified coordination center under the Bundeswehr’s operational command. The reorganization project is called the “Bundeswehr Structure.”

Main Objectives of the New Cyber Unit

• Countering hybrid threats, including disinformation and influence operations
• Carrying out tactical tasks in the field of cyber warfare

Boris Pistorius emphasized that establishing the CIR is intended to adapt the German armed forces to the changing geopolitical landscape. Additionally, the Defense Minister highlighted the need to increase Germany’s defense budget by $7.06 billion in 2025 to reach NATO’s target of 2% of GDP spent on defense.