The Armenian government has approved new incentive payments aimed at encouraging voluntary contract military service under the “Homeland Defender” program.

Under the updated rules, presented by Deputy Minister of Defense Arman Sargsyan at a Cabinet meeting, servicemen who complete their initial contract and choose to continue serving will receive financial bonuses depending on the length of the new contract.

“If a contract is signed for a two-year term, a bonus of 1.5 million drams is provided, and if a contract is signed for a five-year term, a bonus of 5 million drams,” Sargsyan said.

The draft also revises the eligibility timeline for conscripts seeking to enter contract service under the program. According to the deputy minister, the application threshold is being reduced from six months of mandatory service to four months.

The government approved the proposal. Under the “Homeland Defender” program, servicemen currently receive a 5-million-dram bonus upon completing a five-year contract and being discharged. 

The “Homeland Defender” program is a flagship voluntary service option of the Armenian military, envisaging the transition of enlisted recruits from mandatory service to voluntary contract service and offering career opportunities in the armed forces.