Germany to upgrade and expand bomb shelter network in response to Russia tensions

The Guardian reported the information.

Tiesler said Germany must face the possibility of a future conflict and admitted the country is not well prepared.

“For a long time, there was a widespread belief in Germany that war was not a scenario for which we needed to prepare. That has changed. We are concerned about the risk of a major war of aggression in Europe,” he said.

Since building new bunkers takes time and money, the BBK will focus on using what already exists. The plan is to turn tunnels, subway stations, underground garages, parking lots, and basements of public buildings into shelters.

According to Tiesler, the goal is to “quickly create space for 1 million people.” He said his agency will present a full plan later this summer.

The Guardian noted that Germany currently has about 580 working bunkers left from the Cold War. These can hold around 480,000 people — less than 1% of the population. In contrast, Finland has 50,000 shelters that can protect 85% of its people.

Tiesler also said Germany needs to improve public information systems, like apps and road signs, to help people find shelters. He also called for modernizing warning sirens.

He estimated that Germany would need at least €10 billion over the next four years and €30 billion over the next ten years to improve civil defense.

Tiesler called on Friedrich Merz’s government to fund his agency’s plans. The government agreed the plans are important but has not yet officially set aside money for them.

The money is expected to come from funds made available after parliament suspended Germany’s “debt brake” in March. This move allows for major spending on defense, infrastructure like roads and bridges to move tanks and supplies, and civil protection.

• German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said the country is no longer in a clear state of peace with Russia because of Moscow’s hybrid attacks.