EU-Funded Tent Camp to Support Armenian Military Reservist Training, Defense Minister Says

YEREVAN — A tent camp is being established at one of Armenia’s military training grounds with financial support from the European Union, Defense Minister Suren Papikyan announced during a parliamentary question-and-answer session on October 28.

The facility will accommodate the initial ten days of training for reservists participating in Armenia’s 25-day military training program.

According to Papikyan, the new camp will improve the effectiveness of reservist training by providing high-quality facilities and conditions.

“I should note that the European Union has assisted us in this effort,” Papikyan said, explaining that the funding is being provided through the European Peace Facility.

The defense minister described the 25-day reservist training program as an important component of military reforms introduced in recent years. However, he acknowledged that the system remains under development and that further improvements are necessary.

Addressing the specialized nature of reservist training, Papikyan said the armed forces have begun assigning reservists to duties that correspond to their professional qualifications.

He noted that many citizens wish to apply the knowledge and experience gained through their education and civilian employment while serving in the military.

According to the minister, the Defense Ministry is working to expand opportunities for reservists to contribute their professional expertise.

Papikyan added that reservist assignments and unit placements are now largely determined by individual specialties.

On July 22, 2024, the Council of the European Union approved €10 million in assistance to Armenia’s armed forces through the European Peace Facility.

The assistance package included a deployable tent camp intended to support a battalion-sized unit. The initiative was designed to strengthen the logistical capabilities of Armenia’s armed forces and improve the protection of civilians during crises and emergencies.

On January 29, 2026, the EU Council approved an additional €20 million in assistance, including an expansion of the tent camp provided under the earlier program to meet the operational needs of a battalion-sized unit.