The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has made a decision to launch a new direction of the «Contract 18–24» program aimed at drone operators serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, National Guard, and State Border Guard Service.

This was reported by Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal via Telegram.

«At the request of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, we are expanding the «Contract 18–24» program. The government has decided to initiate a separate line of the program — a contract for drone operators who will serve in the Armed Forces, National Guard, and Border Guard Service. This line has specific conditions, the main one being a defined service term of two years,» Shmyhal noted.

Future drone operators will undergo up to 45 days of basic training, up to 60 days of specialized training (considering existing certifications), and a 14-day adaptation course.

«Similar to the main program, a payment of 1 million UAH is provided, which is disbursed in three installments. After completing their service, service members receive additional support from the state, including a mortgage at 0%,» Shmyhal highlighted.

Additionally, at the initiative of the Ministry of Defense, the government is submitting a draft law to Parliament regarding deferment for those who have served under the «Contract 18–24» program.

«Thus, all who voluntarily joined the military under contract will have the right to a deferment 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+.