The transition to a new model of compulsory military service is marked by the enlistment of the A’ Intake Class of 2026 (24–27 February), putting into practice the structural changes in the Armed Forces launched by the Greek Ministry of National Defence. In a fluid geopolitical environment, “the new military service is one of the main pillars of the ‘Agenda 2030’ reform,” has underlined Defence Minister Nikos Dendias, at a time when technological developments and the new approach to military operations seen in recent conflicts leave little room for complacency.

Although the military service regime had prevailed for decades without major changes, the new framework aims to provide substantive training, specialties, and skills, producing capable fighters and reservists—so that military service is transformed in essence “from a chore,” as the minister put it. To this end, basic training will last 10+ weeks, taking place exclusively in the Army, with the addition of new subjects (from drone operation to first aid) and a significant upgrade of existing ones, such as more live-fire exercises, marches, and drills. At the same time, a major change is the provision of specialized knowledge through the Armed Forces’ Lifelong Learning Centers and specialties that confer professional skills, serving as assets for young people who choose them.

Beyond training, the main changes include:

■ Qualitative and quantitative upgrade of meals.
■ A new system of medical examinations at enlistment centers.
■ Posting all conscripts to operational units after training.

■ A significant increase in monthly compensation: from €8.80 to €100 for those serving in Thrace and the Eastern Aegean islands, and €50 for those serving in the interior.

Additional changes to enlistment and service duration:

■ Intake classes reduced from 6 to 4 (February, May, August, November).
■ All conscripts enlist in the Army. Only soldiers with specialized professional qualifications may be internally transferred to other branches (Air Force, Navy).
■ Conscripts will enlist at 13 Training Centers.
■ Service duration: 12 months, except for early or first-call enlistees and those serving in Thrace, the Eastern Aegean islands, the Hellenic Force in Cyprus (ELDYK), and the Evzones Company of the Presidential Guard, who will serve 9 months.

Training Stages

Clearly defined stages with specific skill targets and modern technologies precede specialty training:

■ Stage 1 – Basic training at enlistment centers:
a) Initial training, including enlistment week, culminating in the oath ceremony.
b) Fighter training, fully developing operational capability.

■ Stage 2 – Specialty training at Specialty Training Units of Major Commands/Formations or at Lifelong Learning Centers, where soldiers acquire specialties and vertical skills.

■ Stage 3 – Unit integration at the units where soldiers are posted or transferred to complete the remainder of their service, focusing on operational integration.

New Specialties

Emphasis is placed on basic training, which within 10 weeks serves strategic goals:

■ Increased practical training time.
■ More and varied live fire: night firing, pistol firing, and training grenade throws.
■ More tactics, marches, small-unit exercises, and night training, including combined, progressively demanding drills (e.g., march + firing, night march + firing, overnight outdoors).
■ Introduction of horizontal skills useful later in life: First Aid, fire protection, environmental education.
■ Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) training: theory, detection–identification–countermeasures, and simulator practice with progressively difficult scenarios.

Those who pass simulator scenarios undergo a final test on a training UAS. Successful candidates attend the final two weeks, qualify as UAS operators, and receive a special insignia worn on their uniform.

Specialty training lasts 4 weeks and is conducted in selected operational units, specialized centers and schools, and Lifelong Learning Centers. Some specialties are posted directly to units (doctors, pharmacists, nurses, physiotherapists, microbiologists, IT soldiers, musicians, chemists, etc.).

Regarding content:

■ Outdated specialties are abolished and consolidated into 19 training specialties from 46 previously.
■ Pilot implementation of specialty–skill programs at Lifelong Learning Centers provides certified expertise.
■ For the A’ Intake, skills include machine operator, lifeguard–self-diver, armorer, drone operator, and a cybersecurity program at the Computer Programmers School.
■ Programs will expand in future intakes.

Units and Postings

After completing 14 weeks (basic + specialty), soldiers are posted to Operational Maneuver and Combat Support Units and Logistics Support Units—high-readiness units—primarily in Thrace and the Eastern Aegean, where 70% of soldiers are expected to serve.

Under the new regime, soldiers are entitled to a regular transfer after 6 months from enlistment until completion of service—12 weeks (9-month service) or 26 weeks (12-month service). Postings are points-based, considering knowledge, skills, preferences, locality, etc.

“Pocket Money” up to €100

Administrative support is also upgraded: conscripts receive €100 when serving in border areas and €50 when serving inland (up from €8.80).

Children of large families receive €150 (up from €35). Soldier-parents receive €150 for one child, €200 for two, plus €50 for each additional child. Unmarried orphans of both parents receive €200 (up from €100).

Calories and Portions

A notable change is the qualitative and quantitative upgrade of meals, designed by dietitians serving in the Armed Forces. A new catering regulation aligned with modern nutritional standards raises the meal allowance from €4.50 to €6.40.

The new diet includes additional items to meet daily caloric needs, offers individualized portions, and will be provided simultaneously at all Training Centers.

Photos: Shutterstock, EUROKINISSI