Ukraine is developing a new system of military contracts. It could provide clearly defined service terms, individualized demobilization conditions, and a new model of financial compensation, Ukrainska Pravda reports, citing its own sources in the defense sector.
The absence of a defined end date for military service has been one of the biggest sources of tension in Ukraine. Soldiers mobilized in 2022 have no legal pathway out. This reform, if passed, would change that fundamentally, as the service could become a contract with a finish line, not an open-ended obligation.
Contracts instead of uncertainty: fixed service terms for different categories
According to the publication’s sources, the Ministry of Defense, the General Staff, and the Office of the President have agreed on a concept of contract-based military service with a guaranteed right to demobilization. The draft envisions three main contract types with varying durations, depending on the role and nature of service.
For current servicemembers in combat roles, a 10-month term is proposed; for new recruits in combat units, 14 months; and for other positions (including UAV operators, media personnel, and support specialists), up to 2 years. Service members will be able to choose their field of service.
Flexible demobilization and new incentive system
Mobilized personnel will be able to switch to a contract with a guaranteed demobilization option and deferment until the next draft cycle. The previous period of service will not be transferred into the new contract but will be considered when calculating individual deferment rights.
The option to serve without signing a contract will remain. At the same time, salaries will increase: minimum pay for rear positions will rise from $456 to $684, while compensation for command positions will increase approximately twofold.
“10/20/40”: combat payments up to $9,100 per month
For servicemembers signing combat contracts, a “10/20/40” reward system will be introduced. It includes:
- $228 per day — for being in a combat position
- $456 — for strike or search operations
- $911 — for active offensive actions
On average, an infantry soldier continuously performing combat tasks could receive between $5,700 and $9,100 per month. A maximum payout cap will also be introduced to prevent manipulation through “fabricated assaults.”
Reform not yet finalized
According to the report, the initiatives have not yet been formalized into a draft law or government decree. They are still being refined, but the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff are expected to finalize the concept by the end of the month, after which it may be approved by the Cabinet of Ministers.
