Armenia sees 19% increase in military conscription: Highlights from Suren Papikyan’s press briefing

Defense Minister Suren Papikyan summarized the Ministry of Defense’s activities for 2025 during a press briefing. The main points are as follows:

• There has been significant criticism that defense spending is too low. Papikyan emphasized that in 2025, defense expenditures increased by $1 billion.
• One of the pivotal decisions of the Third Republic was the reduction of mandatory service duration. Papikyan noted that the Ministry now has the ability to implement this measure, and any alternative interpretations are unnecessary.
• In recent years, military conscription has increased by 19%.
• The return of reservists to the army is considered important. Military pensions will also be maintained, meaning reservist officers will receive both salary and pension.
• A 25-day training session ensures the replenishment of reservist ranks.
• There is a misconception that the Ministry has revealed the final design of the new military uniform. Papikyan clarified that the items shown were merely prototypes undergoing testing in the Armed Forces. In 2026, purchases will be made, which local producers can also participate in. He added that the basic design of the new field uniform is now established.