Basic contract in the Armed Forces of Ukraine: who can sign, what payments are provided and what risks exist

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has launched a new pilot project on incentive contracts for military personnel, stipulated by Resolution No. 768. Its main goal is a gradual transition from forced mobilization to a professional and motivated army.

One of the three new formats is the so-called basic contract, which is primarily aimed at logistics specialists.

These include accountants, cooks, IT specialists, clerks, repairmen of equipment, cars, drones, as well as specialists in the field of electronic warfare and air defense.

The contract is concluded for a period of 24 months. It can be signed by both civilians who are on military registration, and active military personnel, mobilized, contract workers, conscript officers, as well as foreigners and stateless persons.

How much will they pay

The basic rate is 20 thousand hryvnias. For those serving in the rear, an additional monthly payment of 10 thousand hryvnia is provided, which forms a guaranteed minimum income of 30 thousand hryvnia per month.

Depending on the rank, position and years of service, the amount can increase to 70 thousand hryvnia.

Also provided are:

— a one-time payment upon first signing the contract — from 27 to 33 thousand hryvnia;
— annual health care allowance — from 20 thousand hryvnia;
— moving allowance;
— compensation for housing rental or mortgage at 3% per annum.

Social guarantees

The contract gives the right to independently choose a military unit and a vacant position from the list approved by the Ministry of Defense.

The preservation of the place of work, position and education for the period of service is also guaranteed.

After the contract ends, the serviceman receives a guaranteed deferral from re-mobilization for 6 months. This period may increase for every 30 days of participation in hostilities.

What are the risks

Despite the focus on rear positions, the contract does not guarantee complete avoidance of combat missions. By decision of the command, a serviceman may be sent to a combat zone.

In addition, some of the benefits and guarantees are currently fixed only at the level of a government resolution, not a law, which leaves room for further changes.

Lawyers emphasize: before signing a basic contract, it is important to carefully analyze all the conditions, including the procedure for accounting for service, combat days, and the grounds for accruing social guarantees.