Papikyan Explained Why the Army’s Budget Was Reduced in 2026
During the discussion on defense expenditures at the National Assembly (NA), Minister of Defense Suren Papikyan stated that the amount allocated for the army in 2026 only appears small by numbers, but in reality, planned defense expenditures continue to grow and meet the army’s needs.
He clarified why the expenses planned for 2026 seem lower than those for 2025 at first glance. “In 2023, 2024, 2025, and 2026, we have incurred unprecedented expenses for the army, covering the needs of servicemen as well as funds allocated for armament, equipment, and engineering works,” the Minister said.
“At first glance, it may seem there is a disproportion between 2025 and 2026, but the balance is actually clear. If we compare the 2024 budget and the one planned for 2026, we will see a natural increase between 2023, 2024, and 2026. The real disproportion occurred in 2025 because, based on the regional developments at that moment, we decided to implement a part of future expenditures in 2025,” Papikyan emphasized.
Papikyan considers this action natural and adequate, noting nothing out of the ordinary.