French Army has recruitment surplus but lacks equipment, deputy chief says

The French Army has a surplus of recruits but lacks equipment like spare parts and counter-drone defenses, according to deputy chief Gen. Patrick Justel. Unlike Germany and Poland, which face recruitment shortages despite funding, France slowed recruitment in 2023 due to budget constraints. France plans to recruit 21,400 active-duty troops in 2026, while Germany and Poland aim to expand their forces significantly.