In an interview with Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland, Ernst emphasized that as retirement ages rise, individuals remain capable for longer periods, and their expertise should be utilized rather than overlooked. Federal Minister of Defense Pistorius is set to unveil a reserve strategy on Wednesday and plans to introduce legislation by summer. Currently, Bundeswehr reservists are not mandated to participate in military exercises, requiring consent from both the reservists and their employers, a voluntary principle that has faced ongoing criticism. This information was broadcast on Deutschlandfunk on April 21, 2026.