> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.adriadefense.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Austrian Military Commander Urges Faster Service Reform, Warns of Drone Threats - URL: https://www.adriadefense.com/austrian-military-commander-urges-faster-service-reform-warns-of-drone-threats/ - Published: 2026-10-25T13:30:00.000Z - Updated: 2026-10-25T13:30:00.000Z - Description: Austria's Vienna military commander calls for faster service reform and warns that the Bundesheer must prepare for drones, ballistic missiles and threats to critical infrastructure. - Author: AdriaDefense Desk - Tags: Austria, CEE, Bundesheer, Christian Habersatter, Industry, Defense Industry Austria's Vienna military commander, Brigadier Christian Habersatter, has called for an earlier extension of civilian alternative service as the country prepares to reform military conscription, warning that its armed forces must also prepare for threats involving drones, ballistic missiles and attacks on critical infrastructure. Speaking in an interview with Austrian public broadcaster ORF on October 24, Habersatter criticized the delayed implementation of longer civilian service and expressed a preference for a different military training model than the one currently proposed by the government. Austria's coalition government has put forward a reform that would retain six months of basic military service, add one month of troop training and introduce two months of compulsory militia exercises. The proposal is intended to strengthen military readiness and increase the number of trained reservists available to the Austrian Armed Forces. Habersatter said he would have preferred the model recommended by Austria's military service commission, consisting of eight months of basic service followed by two months of militia exercises. He argued that the longer initial training period would allow more efficient organization of military instruction. **Civilian Service Extension Could Be Delayed Until 2029** Under the proposed legislation, an extension of civilian alternative service would be triggered only if the annual number of military conscripts falls below 13,875\. In that case, civilian service would increase from nine to eleven months in the second following year, meaning the change could take effect no earlier than 2029. Habersatter called for the extension to be introduced sooner, arguing that the delayed approach would cost valuable time. He also pointed to positive signals from emergency services organizations regarding longer civilian service. The proposed military service reform remains subject to political negotiations and parliamentary approval. The consultation period runs until November 12, while the legislative package requires a two-thirds parliamentary majority. **Preparing for Drones, Missiles and Infrastructure Threats** Beyond conscription, Habersatter highlighted the changing security environment facing Austria. He said the Bundesheer must prepare for threats originating abroad, including special operations forces, unmanned aircraft and ballistic missiles. Such threats could also target the operation of critical infrastructure, making advance preparation essential, according to the Vienna military commander. The remarks come as Austria continues implementing its long-term military modernization program, which includes investments in air defense, military equipment, personnel and operational readiness. Austria's Defense Ministry has also identified stronger militia capabilities as a central objective of the conscription reform. During a parliamentary defense committee meeting on October 22, Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner said the proposed model could help increase the country's mobilization strength from approximately 55,000 personnel to 75,000 by 2032. Habersatter, who assumed command of Vienna's military district in April 2026, also defended the attractiveness of existing military service. Citing feedback from departing conscripts, he said approximately 80% would choose to complete military service again. The proposed reform has not yet been enacted, and negotiations over its final provisions remain ongoing.