Germany is racing against time to prepare for the possibility of a major conflict with Russia, with plans to expand its network of bomb-proof bunkers and shelters. The country’s most senior civilian protection official, Ralph Tiesler, has warned that Germany needs to be prepared for an attack from Russia within the next four years.
Currently, only about 580 working bunkers in Germany can shelter around 480,000 people, which is just half a percent of the population. In comparison, Finland has 50,000 protection rooms with space for 4.8 million people, highlighting the country’s inadequate preparedness. Tiesler aims to create new shelters by converting existing tunnels, metro stations, and underground garages.
The plan includes pinpointing and upgrading existing structures to provide space for 1 million people. However, construction of new facilities is considered insufficient due to time constraints and high costs. Existing systems, such as information apps and road signs, need to be improved to share shelter locations with the public, while warning sirens require upgrades.
Tiesler estimates €10bn will be needed over the next four years for civil defense needs, with at least €30bn required over the next decade. He also calls for a compulsory or voluntary civil protection service and urges citizens to stock up on emergency supplies, aiming for 10 days’ worth of supplies if possible.
Germany’s government has agreed that the plans are necessary but has yet to formally allocate funds. The country is set to receive billions from the suspended debt brake policy, which will be used for military spending, infrastructure development, and civil defense.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/07/germany-plans-rapid-bunker-expansion-amid-fears-of-russian-attack