Military battalion commanders have informed soldiers that they will need to serve beyond the standard two-year service period due to the nation’s state of emergency. This notification was specifically given to soldiers who joined the first batch of military service in May 2024 and are currently stationed in Pinlaung, Southern Shan State. While soldiers are normally supposed to complete their service after two years according to the People’s Military Service Law, the military council has clarified that this will not be the case under current circumstances.
As an incentive to extend military service, the council has promised promotions to ranks such as Lance Corporal, Corporal, and Sergeant for soldiers who complete their initial two-year term. Additionally, degree holders will be allowed to apply for cadet officer training programs, while those who have completed high school education can attend technical sergeant training schools. Military training school administrators have emphasized that there are numerous advancement opportunities within the military, including the possibility of serving alongside military attachés in foreign countries.
According to Article 49 of the Military Council’s People’s Military Service Regulations, when the state faces defense and security situations, the council has the authority to issue military mobilization orders to all adults, partially selected groups, or even those who have completed their military service. Currently, parents and relatives of military trainees are expressing concern that their children will not be able to return home after completing their initial two-year service period. The military council’s actions reflect its ongoing efforts to maintain and expand its forces through various means, including extended service periods and promotional incentives, despite the challenging circumstances facing the country.
