Austria Reaches Compromise on Military Reform

Austrian Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner announces a military reform reintroducing mandatory militia exercises starting January 1, 2027.

Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner and the ÖVP reached a compromise with the SPÖ and NEOS to reform Austria's military service. Starting January 1, 2027, the new model reintroduces mandatory militia exercises, allowing for two months of troop exercises following six months of basic military service over a ten-year period. This reform applies to recruits examined after the law takes effect. Financial compensation for service members will rise from approximately 625 euros to 1,000 euros. While the 'Stufenmodell' is estimated to cost 200 million euros more, Tanner emphasized that financing must not impact the 'Aufbauplan 2032+.' Additionally, a 'military service guarantee' starting in 2028 will increase civil service to eleven months if annual recruit numbers fall below 13,875, addressing survey data showing 30 percent of recruits choose military service for its shorter duration.