The Romanian government on Thursday, October 2nd, approved legislation to expand its volunteer military training programme, part of a broader effort to modernize the NATO member’s defence, boost its defence spending, and strengthen its reserve forces.
The new scheme replaces the former one-week model with four months of training and offers participants the option of joining full-time service. It targets men and women aged 18–35 with no prior military experience. Volunteers will earn €400–600 per month plus free housing, food, medical care, and equipment, along with a €5,300 bonus upon completion.
Graduates automatically become reservists, creating a younger and more capable force. Defence Minister Ionut Mosteanu noted that the current average reservist age of 48 is “too high for a modern military.” Romania currently has 4,700 volunteer reservists but aims to recruit 10,000 more.
Mandatory service was abolished in 2007, leaving recruitment a challenge. Officials hope financial incentives and a longer, more rewarding programme will boost interest.
The bill, still requiring parliamentary approval, is part of wider reforms. Defence spending has nearly doubled since 2023 to 2,5% of GDP, with plans to rise to 3,5% by 2030 plus extra investment in infrastructure, logistics, and cybersecurity. Funds will also expand troop numbers, air defences, and ammunition stockpiles.
Authorities say the volunteer scheme complements these upgrades by securing the human resources needed for long-term NATO resilience.