Austria talks about the military service. Erwin Hameseder wants a change. He is the head of the militia. He wants a longer social service. He asks the party NEOS for agreement. The social service must last 11 months. This improves safety in Austria. The party ÖVP supports this idea.
The NEOS want other rules. They only want a longer service if the army lacks soldiers. In 2024, more young men choose the social service. The ÖVP says this hurts the army. The change starts in January 2027. Hameseder calls the delay of the NEOS a mistake.
People also criticize new planes. The army buys 12 jets from Italy. Auditors criticize the contract. Important rules are missing. The rules are about warranty and courts. The ministry says the contract is good. People also argue about rules for new trucks.