Most German citizens are skeptical about the combat readiness of their armed forces, according to a recent sociological survey conducted by the Insa Institute for the newspaper Bild. Almost three-quarters of Germans expressed doubts about the army’s ability to repel an external threat.
About 72% of respondents stated they partially or completely disagreed with the Bundeswehr’s ability to adequately defend Germany in the event of an attack by another state. However, only 17% of respondents expressed strong confidence in the defensive capabilities of their armed forces. The remaining respondents were undecided.
An interesting trend is being observed regarding potential threats, as the focus of public concern shifts from the real battlefield to the virtual world.
38% of Germans are currently concerned about a possible attack from Russia. However, exactly half of those surveyed said they were not worried about this. For comparison, consider September 2025, when the level of fear of such a scenario was significantly higher, at 52%.
Hybrid attacks are far more troubling for Germans. Two-thirds of respondents are seriously concerned that cyberattacks, acts of sabotage, or targeted disinformation campaigns could paralyze everyday life in the country.
A recent survey by the Insa institute has once again highlighted the protracted crisis in the modernization of the Bundeswehr. Despite the government’s announced course for large-scale rearmament, German society has yet to see any tangible results that could restore a sense of security amid growing global cyber threats.