The key facts

  • The new Chief of Defense is 55-year-old Christian Freuding, who previously commanded the Army
  • He will take office in February 2027
  • His predecessor Carsten Breuer has become Chairman of the NATO Military Committee

Who will lead the Bundeswehr

Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has chosen 55-year-old Lieutenant General Christian Freuding as the new Chief of Defense — the Bundeswehr's highest-ranking officer, the ministry announced on Thursday. Anadolu reports this..

Timeline and predecessor

Freuding, who has served as Commander of the Army since last year, will take office in February 2027. His predecessor, General Carsten Breuer, was elected Chairman of the NATO Military Committee earlier this year. In his new post, Freuding will be responsible for the strategic direction of the armed forces and the development of their capabilities; before commanding the army, he coordinated Berlin's military assistance to Ukraine.