Kosovo Prime Minister Albin Kurti has pledged to invest more than €1 billion in the country’s military during his current term, reaffirming that the development of the Kosovo Security Force (KSF) remains a government priority.
Kurti made the announcement during the swearing-in ceremony of 515 new KSF recruits from the 02/2026 generation, which he described as the largest group of new soldiers the country has ever had. The ceremony took place at the “Adem Jashari” barracks.
Addressing the recruits, Kurti emphasized their responsibility to protect Kosovo’s freedom, sovereignty and territorial integrity, while paying tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for the country.
“The army is one of the main pillars of the state. Its development is our obligation to build institutions with the capabilities needed to guarantee the security of citizens and protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Kosovo, in accordance with its constitutional and legal mandate,” Kurti said.
He added that the strengthening of the KSF had remained a government priority, outlining investments and recruitment efforts undertaken during the previous term.
According to Kurti, the military budget tripled during the previous mandate, while 3,220 new soldiers were recruited, more than doubling the force’s personnel numbers. He said Kosovo was accelerating its strategic military objectives, reaching capabilities initially planned for 2028 two years ahead of schedule.
Kurti also stated that Kosovo had completed arms purchases worth more than €430 million, adding that the KSF was expanding its capabilities through modern equipment, including Bayraktar drones and Skyguard systems, alongside more than 40 types of heavy and light weaponry.
“Our goal is clear: to defend our homeland and for our army to become part of NATO,” he said.
The prime minister also highlighted Kosovo’s participation in international military exercises, including Defender 21, Defender 23 and Defender 25, describing the KSF as an increasingly active contributor to international peace and security.
Kurti further announced progress in developing Kosovo’s domestic defence industry, saying ammunition production at a locally established factory in Gjakova was expected to begin by the end of 2026. He added that the government was supporting private-sector companies interested in manufacturing military products.
The pledge to invest more than €1 billion in the military during the current mandate forms part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen Kosovo’s defence capabilities and advance its stated objective of NATO integration.
