The Serbian Military will officially become professional as of January 1, 2011, thereby providing Serbia with a modern defence system.

The decision on abolishment of compulsory military service in Serbia, is according to the officials, a historic one, resulting in the army's modernization and organization in keeping with the highest standards.

Turning professional, the Serbian Military will follow contemporary military trends according to which a well-trained professional soldier is much more efficient than an ordinary one.

As of 2011, the Serbian Military will recruit both volunteers and women.

The Serbian government proposed on September 30, 2009 abolishment of compulsory military service as of January 2011.

The Serbian MPs adopted the proposal on professionalization of the Serbian Military, which will be applied upon the completion of the military service of the 2010 recruits.

The last December class of recruits took a military oath on December 18 in five training centers in Serbia.