The chairman of the commission, militia representative Erwin Hameseder, clearly advocated for an extension on Thursday in the Ö1 "Midday Journal". He emphasized that the abolition of mandatory militia exercises in 2006 was a "serious mistake". A report from the commission is expected by autumn.

Tanner: Six Months of Basic Military Service "Really Very Short"

The geopolitical conditions have "massively deteriorated," said Hameseder, and Austria must become defensible again. Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner (ÖVP) also told the "Kurier" that the six months of basic military service are "really very short". She expressed confidence in finding a solution that leads to higher readiness and the possibility for more exercises. She continued to oppose mandatory basic military service for women. Hameseder left open how a longer basic military service should be structured. Regarding mandatory militia exercises, close coordination with employers and the economy is necessary. The militia representative believes that Tanner will implement the recommendations: "Otherwise, one would not set up an expert commission."

(APA/Red)

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