Greek Defence Minister Nikos Dendias announced sweeping changes to Greece’s compulsory military service, pledging to transform it into “a service with substance” that offers real opportunities for conscripts, their families, the labour market and the country.
Dendias, accompanied by Chief of the Hellenic National Defence General Staff General Dimitrios Choupis and Chief of the Hellenic Army General Staff Lieutenant General Georgios Kostidis, visited the Armoured Training Centre (KETTH) in Avlona on Thursday, 19 February 2026, ahead of the enlistment of the 2026 A’ intake.
He reviewed preparations at the country’s largest induction centre and received briefings on the implementation of the “New Service” measures. He also observed enlistment procedures, live-fire exercises, drone and anti-drone simulator demonstrations, and small-arms shooting simulators. The minister later visited the Reserve Retraining Centre to assess progress on ongoing works.
Addressing training centre commanders, Dendias criticised the previous model of service as a “chore” and “parody,” insisting that Greece must end what he described as a superficial approach to training. He stressed that the country faces a significant external threat and requires both capable professional personnel and well-trained citizen soldiers.
He outlined reforms that include modernised combat training focused on 21st-century warfare, including drones, anti-drone systems and advanced simulators. He also introduced changes to logistics and nutrition, announcing a new regulation that the Army’s General Inspectorate will strictly enforce. Nutritionists will oversee updated meal plans with improved composition and caloric analysis to ensure soldiers eat properly.
The minister confirmed a substantial increase in monthly compensation for conscripts, raising it from €8 to €100, aiming to ease the financial burden on families.
Dendias described the overhaul as part of the broader “Agenda 2030” reform plan, which will also introduce new uniforms and upgraded equipment. He pledged to monitor the implementation of the reforms closely and expressed confidence that Greece will build a “Citizen Army” worthy of its long military tradition.
