Overhaul of Military Service in Ukraine
On June 12, Ukraine's Ministry of Defense introduced a major overhaul of its military service system, rolling out three new contract categories: infantry-assault, combat, and basic. This initiative is part of broader efforts to modernize the armed forces amid ongoing conflict. The top salary for service members under these contracts can reach 460,000 Ukrainian hryvnias per month, with a baseline pay of 20,000 hryvnias.
Contract Types and Their Terms
The infantry-assault contract has varying service durations:
- 14 months for civilians;
- 10 months for active-duty personnel;
- 6+ months for those who were discharged during a special period.
An infantry soldier under this contract earns an average monthly salary of 300,000 hryvnias, with a maximum of 460,000 hryvnias. Additional mission-based bonuses for operations at platoon strongpoints include:
- 10,000 hryvnias per day for standard tasks;
- 20,000 hryvnias per day for assault-reconnaissance actions;
- 40,000 hryvnias per day for offensive assault operations with forward movement.
The combat contract spans 24 months, offering a minimum monthly salary of 30,000 hryvnias and a maximum of 120,000 hryvnias. Its extra pay includes:
- 30,000 hryvnias per month for command and support roles;
- 50,000 hryvnias per month for personnel at command posts;
- 100,000 hryvnias per month during active combat.
The basic contract also lasts 24 months, with the same salary range: a minimum of 30,000 hryvnias and a maximum of 120,000 hryvnias per month.
Additional incentives under the new contracts include rewards for:
- each enemy combatant taken prisoner – 100,000 hryvnias;
- each enemy killed in close-quarters or rifle combat – 15,000 hryvnias;
- first-time contract signers – a one-time payment of 27,000 to 33,000 hryvnias;
- health and wellness – an annual payment starting at 20,000 hryvnias.
This military service transformation aims to improve conditions for personnel and boost their motivation. The Ministry of Defense is implementing these changes to align with modern realities and the country's defense needs. A mission control system will be used to verify troop presence and activities.
The introduction of the new contracts is designed not only to raise soldiers' salaries but also to encourage their engagement in combat operations through additional financial incentives.
These reforms are expected to positively impact troop morale and readiness, which is critically important given the current situation in Ukraine. They also reflect the Ministry of Defense's commitment to adapting to the challenges of modern warfare and ensuring proper conditions for those serving under demanding circumstances.
In addition to the newly introduced contract types, the Ministry of Defense has also implemented updates regarding the rules for deferral after service. These changes aim to provide further clarity and support for military personnel transitioning back to civilian life. For more details on these important updates, see the article on new post-contract deferral regulations.