Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht has responded soothingly to criticism of her procurement policy. Any criticism that is expressed is good, because then it can also be answered, said the SPD politician on Tuesday when visiting a distribution center for Bundeswehr clothing in Simmern, Rhineland-Palatinate. "It is particularly important to me that everyone who is involved in this area also gets all their questions answered."

The next meeting of the budget committee on December 14 will also deal with the ordered F-35 stealth jets and other projects. Everything is now possible, since the budget is also available from the individual plan, she emphasized. Regarding criticism of the problems in procuring ammunition for the Bundeswehr, she said: "I can assure you that I would like to have more ammunition available, which I would also give to Ukraine in particular." As Federal Minister of Defense, she must also ensure that the defense of the alliance and the country continues to be guaranteed.

Media reports rejected

The "Bild am Sonntag" reported at the weekend about a secret submission in which the Ministry of Defense warned of the considerable risks involved in purchasing the F-35 stealth jet for the Air Force. The ministry contradicted the reports on Monday.

After a tour of the camp and discussions with soldiers, Lambrecht said in Simmern that it was important for everyone in the troops to have the best possible protective equipment. And that will now be tackled. "Next year is where things really get going," she said. By the end of 2025 instead of 2031 as originally planned, the so-called advanced full equipment of the soldiers should be completed, for example with protective vest systems, combat clothing sets, combat helmets and backpacks. 2.4 billion euros were already made available for this last April.