Newsroom / CNA
The Council of Ministers has approved the Ministry of Defence’s proposal to recruit 700 Contract Soldiers (SYOP) for the National Guard, Defence Minister Vasilis Palmas announced Tuesday. The official job announcement will be made following the Easter holidays.
Speaking after a Cabinet meeting chaired by President Nikos Christodoulides, Palmas clarified recent media concerns surrounding the SYOP institution, which was introduced in 2016 to boost the operational readiness of the National Guard. While the system has proven effective, the minister acknowledged certain shortcomings that have since prompted reform efforts.
To strengthen the SYOP program’s sustainability and appeal, the Defence Ministry has introduced a series of updates. Under current regulations, candidates may be recruited up to age 42 via a selection process. Starting July 2024, SYOPs will begin on the A2 salary scale with annual increases, and those serving in designated units will receive a monthly bonus of €100 or €200.
Further, SYOPs reaching their 10th year of service will have the option to extend their retirement age to 57, contingent on passing written exams administered by the ministry. Those who qualify will transition to a combined A2-A5-A7 salary scale, replacing retiring Contracted Non-Commissioned Officers (SYP), who currently occupy 1,100 positions.
The transition will begin in autumn 2026, with vacant SYP posts gradually filled by SYOPs through a competitive process. The agreement is pending legal review by the Legal Service.
Palmas emphasized that SYOPs recruited through the upcoming announcement will be eligible for the full range of benefits and career progression options as outlined in the new employment terms.
