Armenia's Defense Minister Confirms Military Modernization Amidst Azerbaijan Tensions
Armenia's Defense Minister Suren Papikyan announced plans for military modernization and arms purchases, emphasizing a focus on defensive capabilities despite a proposed 15% cut in the 2026 defense budget. The 2025 budget will increase to 664 billion drams ($1.74 billion), and the country aims to enhance its professional military structure while reducing conscription to 18 months by January 2026. Notably, military deaths have decreased by 40% since 2024, indicating improved discipline and safety measures.
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Armenia's Defense Minister Suren Papikyan stated that while Armenia will not engage in an arms race with Azerbaijan, it will continue military modernization and arms purchases. The 2025 defense budget is set at 664 billion drams ($1.74 billion), an increase of approximately $1.1 billion since 2018.
The 2026 budget proposes a 15% cut in military spending, which the government claims does not weaken defense capacity. Papikyan emphasized the importance of a professional military structure and ongoing recruitment on a contractual basis.
He confirmed the army's focus on defensive capabilities, including drones, and announced plans to reduce conscription to 18 months starting January 2026. The number of military deaths decreased by 40% compared to 2024, reflecting improved discipline and safety measures.
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