SPD defense budget spokesperson, Schwarz, and Green Party budget politician, Schäfer, have highlighted a troubling trend of excessive surcharges in defense procurement. They criticized the high costs of military supplies compared to international standards, questioning the justification for significant price increases, particularly for tank containers. To enhance competition and reduce costs, both politicians advocate for the inclusion of startups and new players in the procurement process. The defense budget for this year is approximately 108 billion euros. This report was broadcast on June 23, 2026, by Deutschlandfunk.