Röwekamp emphasized that a voluntary reserve system is inadequate for Germany’s defense needs, asserting that reservists must be quickly deployable in emergencies. He outlined a vision for the Bundeswehr to expand to at least 260,000 active personnel and 200,000 reservists by 2035, primarily sourced from individuals fulfilling the newly established military service requirements. This statement was broadcast on Deutschlandfunk on April 9, 2026.