Skip to main content

From recruit to officer: how to build a military career in the Armed Forces of Ukraine during wartime

The full-scale war has significantly reshaped career opportunities in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, with contract service, accelerated rank promotion, and training in Ukraine and abroad now available.

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine explains how to pursue a military career today and highlights key considerations for those looking to join the Ukrainian military.

Joining the military: mobilization or contract service

Mobilization refers to the compulsory enlistment of citizens during a special legal regime, with no prior choice of service conditions. In contrast, contract service is voluntary, with a defined duration, clear compensation conditions, and career prospects.

Contract service offers greater predictability, along with the ability to plan one’s career and training. It also offers additional benefits:

  • Service in military units based on personal preference;
  • Payments for the first contract;
  • Service housing or monetary compensation for rental accommodation;
  • Education benefits, professional training, and opportunities for reskilling and further training and education;
  • The opportunity to continue a military career after martial law ends.

Who can sign a contract, and for how long

Ukrainian citizens, foreign nationals, and stateless persons aged 18 and over may sign a contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. This option is also available to mobilized service members currently in service.

Contract durations vary depending on rank. For example, contracts are signed for three years for enlisted personnel; three to five years for NCOs and senior NCOs; five years for officers (after completing higher education); and ten years for aviation flight specialties.

Important note: If a contract was signed before February 24, 2022, but the term of service expired during martial law, service continues until demobilization. Service members in this category are discharged from military service upon the issuance of the President of Ukraine's demobilization decree.

Typical career pathways in the Armed Forces of Ukraine

Military service begins with an entry-level role or training unit assignment. Advancement to higher positions follows individual career management plans for service members. This includes certification outcomes, professional competence, personal qualities and achievements, individual preferences, training within the military training system, and time spent in previous positions.

This is followed by rotation through various positions (command, staff, rear-area, academic-teaching, research, and others), after which the next military rank is awarded. Throughout their career, service members retain access to military education and professional development.

Eligibility for accelerated commissioning as an officer

Mobilized recruits are awarded the rank of soldier after taking the Military Oath. Previously, the initial rank of junior sergeant was awarded after appropriate training, but under martial law combat experience now takes priority.

Due to the war, there is a need to staff units with junior officers. Accordingly, the rank of junior lieutenant may now be awarded to:

  • Service members who completed military education under an accelerated program during the war;
  • Sergeants and senior NCOs serving under contract or mobilization who have a higher education degree or completed military training courses;
  • Sergeants and senior NCOs appointed to officer roles during the war who are successfully performing their duties;
  • Mobilized soldiers with at least a bachelor’s degree who, as required, completed officer training courses and passed the required examinations;
  • Sergeants and senior NCOs appointed to officer roles who have obtained a higher education degree.

Tags