Government to Present Military Service Extension

The three-party coalition will unveil a three-month military service extension at the Salzburg ministerial council on July 27, 2026.

On Monday, July 27, 2026, the government will present a reform package at the Schwarzenberg barracks in Salzburg extending military service by three months of militia exercises. While the three-party coalition agreed on this nine-month total, the new model depends on establishing a civilian service framework. Currently lasting nine months, the ÖVP seeks a longer civilian duration, proposing a compromise of nine months plus two months of training against the Neos party's opposition. The Neos advocate for a voluntary EU army instead. Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner’s 2025 expert commission previously suggested an 8+2 month model. Implementation is slated for early 2027. Additionally, the ministerial council will present a negotiated social media ban for children under 14.