Greece launches overhaul of mandatory military service under “Agenda 2030”

Greece is rolling out a sweeping reform of its mandatory military service model starting with the A’ ESSO 2026 intake (February 24–27), introducing extended training, new technical skills programs, and a significant increase in monthly compensation.

Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias described the reform as a central pillar of the armed forces’ modernization plan titled “Agenda 2030,” aimed at adapting to evolving geopolitical realities, technological advancements, and lessons from recent conflicts.

According to the Hellenic Ministry of National Defence, the goal is to transform military service from a routine obligation into a meaningful training period that produces capable reservists while equipping young citizens with certified professional skills.

Key Changes at a Glance
Reduced Intake Cycles

• Annual conscription intakes (ESSO) reduced from six to four: February, May, August, and November.

All Conscripts Assigned to Army

• All recruits will initially enlist in the Hellenic Army.
• Transfers to the Hellenic Air Force or Hellenic Navy will be limited to those with specialized qualifications.

Service Duration

• Standard duration: 12 months.
• Reduced to 9 months for:

Those serving in Thrace and the Eastern Aegean islands

Those assigned to ELDYK (Hellenic Force in Cyprus)

Evzones Presidential Guard

Specific early-call categories

Three-Stage Training Model
1️⃣ Basic Training (10 Weeks)

Conducted exclusively within the Army, the upgraded program includes:

• Increased live-fire exercises
• Night firing drills
• Pistol training
• Training grenade throws
• Expanded tactical exercises and field maneuvers
• Combined day-night operational simulations

New skill modules include:

• First aid
• Fire protection
• Environmental awareness
• Unmanned Aerial Systems (drone) training

Recruits who successfully complete simulator assessments will receive certified drone operator training and an official insignia.

2️⃣ Specialized Training (4 Weeks)

Carried out at designated specialty units or Lifelong Learning Centers, this phase:

• Reduces specialties from 46 to 19 modernized categories
• Eliminates outdated roles
• Introduces certified vocational tracks

Pilot programs for the first intake include:

• Heavy machinery operator
• Lifeguard–diver
• Armorer
• Drone operator
• Cybersecurity training at the Military IT Programming School

3️⃣ Operational Deployment

After training, conscripts are assigned to high-readiness operational units, with 70% prioritized for Thrace and the Eastern Aegean.

Transfers are possible after six months based on a points system evaluating skills, knowledge, and regional preference.

Major Increase in Monthly Compensation

Monthly pay rises dramatically from €8.80 to:

• €100 for service in border regions
• €50 for service in mainland units

Additional increases include:

• €150 for conscripts from large families
• €150–€200 for conscript parents (plus €50 per additional child)
• €200 for unmarried orphans of both parents

Upgraded Military Catering

• Daily food allowance increases from €4.50 to €6.40
• New nutrition standards aligned with modern dietary guidelines
• Standardized, calorie-based meal planning
• Option for individualized portions

Strategic Objective

The reform seeks to:

• Enhance operational readiness
• Strengthen Greece’s reserve force capacity
• Provide transferable civilian skills
• Modernize force structure in line with contemporary warfare trends

The changes mark one of the most comprehensive restructuring efforts in Greece’s recent military policy.