Abuses Described – Announced Army Reform Becomes a Non-Starter!

“I was really looking forward to my time in the military. But it was a bitter disappointment. Many of us were mentally exhausted,” said an 18-year-old from Lower Austria, a few days after being disarmed from basic military service. He wants to remain anonymous because he fears possible consequences, but also wants to raise awareness on behalf of the “generation crisis” and point out the errors in the system together with a peer from the same platoon.

“In the barracks in Lower Austria, which specializes in the training of pioneers, there was a non-commissioned officer who intimidated us extremely,” said the young man. “He has drawn attention to violent crimes in the past and has openly threatened us.” The boys wonder: “Why do you let such people loose on young people?”

“The management is demotivated”
One possible answer comes from an internationally active army general staff officer who understandably does not want to reveal his name. The family man with Carinthian roots explains: “The management is demotivated. Unfortunately, this runs through all levels. The frustration is processed according to the motto: the dogs bite the last.”

Where does this frustration come from?
“We soldiers have been the ‘helpers’ of the country for two years now. Corona test streets, contact tracing, embassy guards or temporary postal assistance – the comrades constantly have to perform new tasks for which they have not been trained.” The insider refers to the tense staff situation: “The squad had a real bloodletting. At least 100 NCOs are missing throughout Austria. At the same time, there are more and more demands and wishes, especially on the part of the ÖVP.” The load of the troops is not taken into account. Result: “The planned infantry companies only exist on paper.”

The situation is particularly dangerous at the border patrol, for which recruits are deployed. Aside from the poor offerings (“moldy cheese spread, spoiled spaghetti, products past their expiration date”), the psyche factor is completely underestimated. “After three months of training, you suddenly find yourself in unfamiliar territory at night with live ammunition. There is no mental preparation at all,” the two criticize.

Due to the constant stress (“up to 87 working hours per week”) in combination with psychological problems, tragic incidents often happen. Unfortunately, these are also confirmed by our specialist. Maneuvering criticism at the end: It doesn’t matter if you’re a conscript or a general, the problems are acknowledged by both sides. What is missing are the solutions.

Comment: A shot in the oven

The Russian invasion of Ukraine has shown how important effective national defense is – and how far Austria is from that. Pseudo-neutrality and a weak army are an explosive mix. When the worst gets out of hand, you’re on your own. Like the rabbit before the snake. Given the threat, Secretary Tanner promised a multi-billion dollar package in March. So far, the pursuit is another bull’s-eye during her tenure. Big words that are not followed by actions. A tactical reminder: “Airbus will get to know me.” Money alone does not solve the problems. First of all, the ÖVP should realize that the army is neither a self-service shop nor a party political personnel reserve. Then a fundamental decision would be necessary. In short: upgrade or abolish? There is only one perspective left for a dying guard and shut down society – the last tattoo.

George Brandl