In Ukraine, the number of military brigades participating in modern projects under the contractual system is increasing, particularly within the framework of the “Contract for a Million” program
According to recent data from the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense (MoD), the number of brigades open to volunteers under the "Contract 18-24" project has reached 24, which is eight more than previously. This represents a significant step toward strengthening the Ukrainian Armed Forces and involving the broadest possible spectrum of youth in military service under current conditions. According to official sources from the Ministry of Defense, the relevant decision was made and signed by the Chief of the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, General Andriy Gnatyuk. The document clearly outlines the new list of military formations now open to volunteers under the "Contract 18-24" program. It includes well-known and respected brigades such as the 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade "Magura," the 54th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after Hetman Ivan Mazepa, the 3rd Separate Tank Iron Brigade, the 82nd Separate Air Assault Bukovinian Brigade, the 34th Separate Coast Guard Brigade, as well as several Territorial Defense Brigades—the 103rd named after Metropolitan Andrey Sheptytsky, and the 108th and 127th separate brigades of respective forces. Public activists and military experts note that this is an important step toward the structural and personnel modernization of the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Now, young people have a wide range of military formations to choose from when signing a contract, allowing them not only to serve and defend the country but also to benefit from numerous social and financial guarantees provided by the modern contractual system. Previously, the list of available brigades for enlistment included such notable units as the 72nd Separate Mechanized Brigade, the 95th Separate Air Assault Brigade, the 38th Separate Marine Battalion, the 28th Mechanized Brigade, the 10th Mountain Assault Brigade, the 92nd Assault Brigade, as well as the 3rd Assault Brigade, 24th, 93rd, and 30th Mechanized Brigades, the 128th Mountain Assault Brigade, the 36th Marine Battalion, the 39th Coast Guard, the 25th Airborne Brigade, the 80th Air Assault Brigade, and the 59th Attack Brigade. This demonstrates a broad choice for potential volunteers from all across the country. Changes in these lists allow young, capable, and willing individuals to choose their military path—whether from a frontline battalion or an engineering group, with naval infantry or personnel monitoring checkpoints. Everything depends on personal preferences and physical capabilities. Regarding the financial aspect, the "Contract for a Million" program provides substantial material support. Volunteers will receive one million hryvnias under the contract, with 200,000 hryvnias paid immediately after signing the agreement. The remaining 800,000 hryvnias are accrued in two installments during the service period. The monthly monetary compensation can reach up to 120,000 hryvnias, which is a strong incentive for young people to join the army, along with additional payments for combat actions and special tasks. Beyond material benefits, the contract includes a range of social privileges. Volunteers will have access to zero-interest mortgages, free state-funded education, medical services—including dental prosthetics—and the right to travel abroad after one year of service. These are not only financial guarantees but also opportunities to secure their future, acquire new skills, and pursue self-realization. Another important aspect is legal protection: after completing the contract, service members are exempt from mobilization for 12 months. This provides young servicemen with the prospect of returning to civilian life with greater social and financial stability. Applications for participation can be submitted via the official website 18-24.army.gov.ua or through the popular mobile app "Reserve+". This facilitates a modern, accessible, and convenient process, leveraging digital solutions. The Ministry of Defense emphasizes that the implementation of the "Contract for a Million" aims to create a robust reserve Army capable of quickly responding to any security challenges. Simultaneously, the motivation mechanism for youth continues to be improved to encourage service and defense of the country. In conclusion, the increase in the number of brigades involved in the program and the expansion of opportunities for volunteers signal the strengthening of the Ukrainian army and its aspiration to be more mobile, modern, and motivated. The choice of service and contracts is now becoming increasingly accessible for young Ukrainians eager to contribute to the country's security and their own future.