New Program for Drone Operators in Ukraine
The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has approved new initiatives for drone operators who will perform duties in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, National Guard, and State Border Service.
This was reported by the Minister of Defense of Ukraine, Denys Shmyhal, on his Telegram channel.
“At the instruction of President Volodymyr Zelensky, we are expanding the initiative ‘Contract 18–24’. The government has decided to launch a special program for drone operators who will serve in the Armed Forces, National Guard, and State Border Service. This program has specific conditions. The main condition is a clearly defined service period of two years,” Shmyhal noted.
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 a 14-day adaptation course.
“Like in the main program, there is a provision for a payment of 1 million UAH, which is made in three stages. After completing their service, soldiers will receive additional support from the state, including a mortgage at 0%,” Shmyhal emphasized.
Additionally, at the initiative of the Ministry of Defense, the government is submitting a draft law to Parliament regarding deferrals for those who have served under the ‘Contract 18–24’ program.
“Thus, everyone who voluntarily joined the military under contract will have the right to a deferral for 12 months after reaching the age of 25,” Shmyhal added.
Applications for the ‘Contract 18-24’ program can be submitted on the website: 18-24.army.gov.ua or through Reserve+.
