Armenian Defense Ministry proposes to reduce compulsory military service term to 18 months

YEREVAN, September 11. /ARKA/. The Armenian Defense Ministry has put forward a draft law for public consideration, which aims to shorten the compulsory military service period by 6 months.

As per the draft law available on the e-draft.am platform, the service duration for privates will be 18 months (currently 24 months), commencing with the summer draft of 2026.

The rationale states that the government program for 2021-2026 includes provisions for reducing the compulsory military service duration by enhancing contract service.

"In recent years, tangible measures have been implemented to broaden contract military service under the 'Defender of the Fatherland' initiative, establish a professional sergeant system, certify military personnel, and organize contract service in border military units while ensuring a military pension for long service. The outcomes of these initiatives are viewed positively and aid in enhancing the appeal and scope of contract service," the draft indicates.

The document further clarifies that the passage of the bill will not necessitate amendments to other legal statutes.

According to the Ministry of Defense's projections, following the enactment of the amendments, a decrease in costs associated with the organization of compulsory military service is anticipated, beginning in 2028, as those conscripted in the summer of 2026 will complete their 18-month service by December 31, 2027.-0-