The Cabinet of Ministers has added a new direction to the Contract 18-24 program
31 July 05:22
On the instructions of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the government has approved a new direction within the Contract 18-24 program – a special contract for drone operators who will serve in the Armed Forces, the National Guard, and the State Border Guard Service. This was announced by Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal on Telegram, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
“This area has special conditions. The main one is a clear term of service: two years. Future drone operators will undergo up to 45 days of basic training, up to 60 days of professional training (taking into account existing certificates) and 14 days of adaptation course. As in the main program, the payment of UAH 1 million is envisaged, which is carried out in three stages,” Shmyhal wrote.
As in the basic program, a payment of UAH 1 million is provided, which is made in three stages. Upon completion of service, participants receive additional assistance from the state, including the opportunity to take out a 0% mortgage.
“Contract 18-24 for UAV operators: features and benefits
Volunteers under this contract will have the same conditions as other people who have joined the 18-24 project:
- a contract for UAH 1,000,000 (UAH 200,000 immediately upon signing the contract, and UAH 800,000 in two installments for the duration of the contract)
- up to UAH 120,000 per month and additional payment for combat missions;
- up to UAH 2,000,000 per year;
- after signing the contract – mandatory intensive training for 3 months;
- upon completion of the contract – exemption from conscription for 1 year;
- choice of unit and specialty;
- compensation for housing during the service;
- medical care, free dentistry and dental prosthetics;
- mortgage at 0.0% per annum after the end of the contract (“eOselya”);
- free transportation and utility benefits;
- education in educational institutions within the limits of quotas at the expense of the state, after the end of the contract;
- the right to travel abroad after the end of the contract;
- the right to choose the place of the preliminary military examination.
In addition, the Ministry of Defense initiated the government’s submission to the Verkhovna Rada of a draft law that provides for a deferral from mobilization for those who have already served under the terms of the “Contract 18-24”. Thus, all those who have voluntarily signed the contract and completed their service will be able to receive a 12-month deferral after reaching the age of 25.
You can apply on the portal: 18-24.army.gov.ua or through the Reserve application.
What is the 18-24 Contract?
The 18-24 Contract project was officially launched in February 2024 as a voluntary initiative for Ukrainians aged 18 to 24 who wish to join the Defense Forces for up to 1 year.
It is not only about service, but also about:
- financial remuneration above the standard;
- intensive combat training under the guidance of experienced instructors;
- social guarantees, including medical care, vacations and benefits.
What young contractors are promised
After signing a one-year contract, there is a mandatory 3-month intensive training period. After 1 year of the contract, a 1-year exemption from conscription is guaranteed.
The special website where you can apply for service emphasizes that such a contract allows citizens aged 18 to 24 to receive competitive payments, prestigious experience and social guarantees that are not available in civilian life in just 1 year.
What is promised to those who sign such a contract?
– UAH 1,000,000 (UAH 200,000 immediately upon signing the contract, and UAH 800,000 in two installments for the duration of the contract);
– An additional UAH 120,000 per month for combat missions;
– Choice of unit and specialty;
– Compensation for housing during service;
– Medical support for dentistry and dental prosthetics;
– Mortgage at 0.0% per annum after the end of the contract (“eOselya”);
– Free transportation and utility benefits;
– Education in educational institutions within the quotas at the expense of the state, after the end of the contract;
– The right to travel abroad after 1 year of service.
– The right to choose the place of the preliminary vetting.
As you know, the Cabinet of Ministers approved the procedure for concluding contracts for one year for volunteers aged 18 to 24 years. As explained by the Ministry of Defense, “a 1-year contract for volunteers aged 18 to 24 provides for basic general military training, professional training and adaptation course in a military unit, as well as a number of financial and social benefits.
As a reminder, Ukraine’s international partners have repeatedly called on the Ukrainian authorities to lower the mobilization age. In response, the President of Ukraine has repeatedly stated that Ukraine sees no reason for such changes and considers them dangerous at this time. Instead, it was decided to encourage Ukrainians aged 18 to 24 to serve in the military and to develop a special contract for them.
