Defense Spending Up $1.1 Billion Since 2018, Says Minister Papikyan

YEREVAN — Armenia’s defense expenditures increased by $1.1 billion in 2025 compared to 2018, Defense Minister Suren Papikyan announced during a year-end press conference.

According to the minister, defense spending totaled 245 billion drams in 2018, rising to 664 billion drams in 2025. “Defense sector expenditures have increased by $1.1 billion,” Papikyan stated.

Addressing architectural, fortification, and overall construction costs, the defense minister noted a sharp rise in these expenditures as well. He emphasized that 2025 recorded the highest overall construction spending of any year—possibly of the past 30 years. “In 2018, these expenses were about 17 billion drams, while in 2025 they amounted to 57 billion drams. This cannot be without results or consequences,” he said.

Papikyan stressed that preparing for peace also requires maintaining a certain level of defense capability. “Peace also means that we can calmly ensure our country’s long-term defense capability, regardless of whether threats exist or not. We ourselves must assess our country’s capacities and the external challenges we face. While preparing for peace, it is essential to maintain a certain level of defense capability that threatens no one’s security or territorial integrity. On the contrary, it ensures our own security and territorial integrity,” the minister said.

Commenting on Azerbaijan’s continued armament and military buildup, Papikyan stated: “I do not intend to enter into an arms race with any country, including Azerbaijan. However, this does not mean that the Republic of Armenia will halt the procurement of armaments and military equipment or the modernization of the armed forces. The figures I have presented are clear proof of this.”

During the press conference, Papikyan also addressed conscription, noting an increase in enlistment last year. “Compared to 2023, in 2025 we recorded a 19 percent increase in conscription. This is the result of our reforms—not only legislative changes but also government decisions, particularly amendments to Decisions No. 404 and 405. I consider this a significant achievement,” the minister said, adding that he places great importance on the 25-day training assemblies.