Alpha News

Cabinet Approves Upgrades for National Guard Contract Soldiers

Published February 18, 2026, 12:27

The Council of Ministers approved a bill for the professional and salary upgrade of the National Guard Contract Soldiers (SYOP). The changes include raising the retirement age to 57, increasing the recruitment age limit to 35, and the possibility of evolving into Contract Non-Commissioned Officers (SYP) through examinations. 700 new positions will be created for the SYOP, and the green light was given for the creation of a trade union, although full trade union freedom is not possible in the National Guard. The goal is meritocracy and equal treatment.