515 new soldiers swear in to the KSF, Kurti: More than €1 billion for defense investments

A ceremony was held at the “Adem Jashari” Barracks in Pristina, where 515 new members of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) were sworn in. Institutional leaders, representatives of security institutions, international partners and the soldiers’ family members attended.

Prime Minister Albin Kurti described them as the largest generation in the KSF’s history. He said 515 citizens had chosen to serve their country and contribute to protecting Kosovo’s security and freedom.

“515 new Kosovo Security Force soldiers, the largest generation we have ever had; 515 citizens of the Republic who have chosen to serve their homeland; 515 more rifles for the country’s security; 515 new guarantors of freedom and peace,” Kurti said.

Kurti stressed that military service carries a responsibility to protect freedom, which, he said, had been achieved through the efforts and sacrifices of many generations. He highlighted the role of the Kosovo Liberation Army, as well as the nation’s fallen heroes and martyrs.

“The KLA was and remains a symbol of our people’s determination not to submit, not to accept enslavement. The sacrifice of the nation’s fallen heroes and martyrs obliges us to preserve historical truth, honor the just war of liberation and take pride in it wherever we are and wherever we go,” he said.

The prime minister said the army is one of the state’s fundamental pillars and that strengthening it is a government priority. He said the army’s budget tripled during his previous term, and that he had pledged to invest more than €1 billion in defense during the current term.

“We have made arms purchases worth more than €430 million. Our air support includes Bayraktar and SkyDagger drones, while on the ground we have more than 40 types of heavy and light weapons, modern and in line with NATO standards,” Kurti said.

He said that 3,220 new soldiers had been recruited to date. With the addition of future generations, the aim is to reach the military capabilities planned for 2028 ahead of schedule.

Kosovo is also developing its defense industry, Kurti said. He announced that the factory under construction in Gjakova is expected to begin producing ammunition by the end of the year. The government is also supporting private companies seeking to manufacture military products.

Speaking about the KSF’s international activities, Kurti cited its participation in the “Defender 21,” “Defender 23” and “Defender 25” exercises, as well as its involvement in international peace and security missions.

He noted that, alongside weapons and technology, professional training, education and the well-being of service members are also priorities.

“We are not building an army against anyone. We are building it for Kosovo. For peace. For security. For freedom,” Kurti said. He added that the aim is to have a professional, modern KSF prepared to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Kosovo.

At the end of his speech, Kurti congratulated the soldiers on their oath and urged them to carry out their duties with discipline, character and responsibility.

“You are part of the generation that must protect the freedom we enjoy and strengthen the state that guarantees it,” Kurti concluded.