At the Essen Motor Show in western Germany, the Bundeswehr is actively recruiting amid plans to grow its military size significantly. The army aims to add 80,000 professional soldiers to reach 260,000 and raise reservists by 140,000 to 200,000 within 10 years. To support this, starting January 1, all 18-year-old men must fill a questionnaire to check their suitability for military service. In about two years, they will undergo a mandatory health test to identify who can be called for full-scale war if needed. The Bundeswehr is boosting wages and offering perks like language courses, subsidized driving licenses, and free train travel in uniform to attract young people. They are also setting up recruitment lounges at sports events, supermarkets, and truck stops, plus hosting special days at military bases, including events focused on girls. Visitors like Tom, a 20-year-old trainee car mechanic, express enthusiasm for joining the army. He plans to become a paratrooper to defend Germany. Luca, an IT specialist, suggests reintroducing compulsory service, highlighting its importance since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Many Germans back strengthening the military. Jennifer and Matthias Schleicher, parents at the show, support the recent increase in defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2029 and favor reinstating conscription. Though 63% of young people oppose it, more than half of Germans agree with restoring it. Recruiters report growing interest compared to 2007, when many questioned the army’s presence at events like the motor show. Now, public attitude has shifted due to changing security needs. Achim, a tank operator who joined at 17 with parental consent, says his goal is peace by deterring attacks on Germany and its democracy. "This I strongly believe, has helped ensure peace for over 70 years," he says.