Greece has announced a comprehensive package of measures aimed at attracting more young people to the armed forces, including a significant increase in salaries and improved conditions for servicemen. The decisions were presented by Defense Minister Nikos Dendias and received widespread coverage in the Greek media, News.bg reports.
Dendias stressed that the modernization of the army requires not only modern equipment, but also sufficiently qualified specialists to take on key roles. In the context of the new challenges, it is planned to establish a Greek Center for Scientific Research and Innovation, as well as a specialized cybersecurity unit, which will support both military structures and state administration.
From the beginning of next year, the salaries of military personnel will be increased by between 10% and 20%. Some media outlets note that in certain categories the increase may be even greater. Free housing for military personnel with families, better education for their children and expanded access to health services are also provided.
Military service in Greece remains mandatory for men between the ages of 19 and 45 and lasts nine months. A voluntary one-year service for women is also planned, as well as the creation of a corps of 150,000 reservists - volunteers up to the age of 60.
The minister emphasized that the demographic crisis is among the most serious challenges facing the army: the number of conscripts is decreasing, and young people rarely choose a military career due to low pay and limited prospects. The new measures aim to restore interest in the profession and ensure sustainable personnel development of the armed forces.