German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius is set to propose the reinstatement of the registration of individuals fit for military service, 13 years after Germany effectively abolished national conscription, dpa can report.
Young men would have to provide information in a questionnaire about their willingness and ability to serve and to undergo a physical examination if selected, according to Pistorius' plan, which he will formally reveal later on Wednesday.
The proposal represents a first step towards potentially reinstating some form of conscription, a controversial issue in Germany.
The country effectively abolished compulsory military or civil service for men in 2011 after 55 years, although German law still provides for possible conscription in the event of war or other tensions.
Military planners estimate that 400,000 people will have to complete the questionnaire each year, and believe about a quarter of them could express an interest.
The plan then is to order 40,000 candidates to take part in the physical check-up.
There is currently capacity to train between 5,000 to 7,000 recruits, but this is set to grow. The military service is expected to last six or 12 months.
After informing the parliament's defence committee, Pistorius is due to explain his proposals at a press conference in the afternoon.
