Ukraine Unveils Military Service Overhaul with New Contracts and Salaries Reaching 460,000 Hryvnias

Ukraine Launches Major Reform of Its Military Service System

According to Главком: Ukraine has announced a sweeping transformation of its military service framework, introducing a comprehensive package of measures that includes new contract options, increased pay, streamlined transfers, and revised discharge procedures. The reform package was presented by Yuliia Svyrydenko, Oleksandr Syrskyi, and Mykhailo Fedorov. This initial phase is designed to modernize service conditions and align them with current operational demands.

Core Elements of the Reform

New contract types have been introduced, including:

• An infantry-assault contract lasting 14 months for civilians, 10 months for active-duty personnel, and from 6 months for those previously discharged;
• A combat contract set at 24 months for drone operators, artillery crews, electronic warfare specialists, and similar roles;
• A standard contract also spanning 24 months for other service branches.

A significant pay raise has been implemented, with infantry and assault troops eligible for up to 460,000 hryvnias. Frontline soldiers will earn an average of around 300,000 hryvnias per month, while rear-echelon positions start at 30,000 hryvnias. Service in near-frontline zones is valued at 50,000 hryvnias, and work at command posts at 70,000 hryvnias. Combat specialties will receive 120,000 hryvnias. Brigade commanders' salaries will increase from 50,000 to 150,000 hryvnias, and corps commanders from 92,000 to 230,000 hryvnias monthly.

Another key innovation is the ability to transfer between units via the specialized Army+ app without requiring additional commander approvals. A program allowing return from AWOL status will remain open until September 20, 2026, and can be initiated through Army+ or offline, with over 50 units to choose from.

Up to 30-50% of assault and infantry positions may be filled by foreign legionnaires. The mechanism for discharging the most experienced soldiers is set to begin by the end of 2026. A Mission Control system will analyze unit effectiveness using more than 160 metrics. The next reform phase will target changes in recruitment and mobilization procedures.

These initiatives are part of Ukraine's broader strategy to adapt military service to contemporary challenges and needs. - Yuliia Svyrydenko

The enhanced pay and simplified processes are expected to significantly boost soldier motivation, thereby improving overall army effectiveness. These changes may also create new opportunities for foreign specialists, bringing added diversity and expertise to Ukrainian units.

As Ukraine embarks on this transformative journey, the Prime Minister has outlined essential conditions for the ongoing reform of military recruitment. Understanding these stipulations is crucial for grasping the broader implications of the changes in military service. For more insights on the prerequisites set forth by the government, explore the details in our related coverage on military recruitment reform.