The Bundeswehr and its Mission : Germany

The Bundeswehr consists of modern armed services based on compulsory military service for men. The basic period of military service is presently ten months. There are also career servicemen and others on engagements of up to 15 years. For women there are careers available in the medical and music corps. The civilian staff of the armed forces numbered about 150,000 in mid-1997 and is to be reduced to under 140,000.

The Bundeswehr

2>defends Germany and its people from political blackmail and external danger;

5>promotes Europe’s military stability and integration; 5>defends Germany and its allies;

^■serves the cause of world peace and international security in accordance with the United Nations Charter; and ^provides support in the event of disasters and other