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Armenia's Defense Minister Suren Papikyan announced plans for military modernization and arms purchases, emphasizing a focus on defensive capabilities despite a proposed 15% cut in the 2026 defense budget. The 2025 budget will increase to 664 billion drams ($1.74 billion), and the country aims to enhance its professional military structure while reducing conscription to 18 months by January 2026. Notably, military deaths have decreased by 40% since 2024, indicating improved discipline and safety measures.