Papikyan on Reforms, Budget, and "August 8" Reality

Armenia will continue fundamental reforms in the defense sector according to its needs, which also include new acquisitions of armaments and military equipment. At the same time, the defense strategy will be shaped considering new military-political realities, and cooperation with the United States is developing with positive dynamics. Armenian Defense Minister Suren Papikyan spoke about these topics in a conversation with journalists in the National Assembly.

Addressing the apparent reduction in defense sector spending in the 2026 state budget draft, the minister clarified that it seems reduced only in comparison to the exceptionally high figure of 2025. According to him, there was a sharp, one-time increase in the expenditure amount in 2025, which was due to "brought-forward expenses."

"If we compare the 2026 budget with the trend of budget increases in previous years, there is no violation, except for the difference that occurred in 2025. If we compare 2026 with 2024, it is a natural pace of development," Papikyan detailed, stressing that there is nothing strange or unusual about the situation.

Despite these financial planning specifics, the minister reaffirmed that the modernization and re-equipment of the army remain a government priority. However, he clearly hinted that the defense policy is influenced by new realities, singling out "August 8."

"Armenia will continue reforms according to its needs, including the purchase of armaments and military equipment. But August 8 is an important reality, and it cannot be ignored by us as an established fact. Naturally, that must have its consequences," the minister said, effectively stating that Armenia's defense strategy will henceforth be formed taking this new reality into account.

In the context of international cooperation in the defense sector, Suren Papikyan also touched upon relations with the US. In response to a question about whether there are specific agreements on the acquisition of weapons or ammunition, the minister avoided giving details. However, he assessed the dynamics between the two countries positively. "There is quite a positive dynamic in the development of our cooperation," Papikyan noted, testifying to Armenia's ongoing policy of diversifying its circle of security partners.

At the same time, Papikyan did not confirm the rumors that Armenia is buying a batch of fighter jets from India. The Defense Minister stated that there is no such agreement.