Austria Plans Compulsory Military Service Reform

The Austrian government is set to present a military reform on Monday, featuring an "Austria plus" model with extended service terms.

The government is preparing a reform of compulsory military service, with a final proposal expected Monday at the summer council of ministers in Salzburg's Schwarzenberg barracks. While the ÖVP and SPÖ are largely in agreement, the NEOS held meetings Wednesday to advocate for a voluntary model. A commission has recommended the "Austria plus" variant, which mandates eight months of basic military service followed by two months of militia exercises. This reform would also include a corresponding expansion of civilian service. Burgenland military commander Gernot Gasser reaffirmed his support for the eight-plus-two-month extension on Wednesday, stating that equipment alone is insufficient for national defense. Citing current global politics, Gasser urged rapid decisions to ensure the country remains capable of defense.