PARIS, Nov. 27 (Xinhua) -- French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday announced details of a new voluntary military service program set to be rolled out from mid-2026.

Speaking at the Varces military base in southeastern France, Macron said the initiative draws on the experience of other European countries "at a time when all our European allies are moving forward to respond to a threat that weighs on us all."

The program is designed to offer several pathways at its conclusion, allowing participants to reintegrate into civilian life, join the military reserves, or continue serving in the armed forces.

According to French media, the scheme will last around ten months, be open to adults aged 18 and above, and offer a monthly allowance of at least 800 euros (927.5 U.S. dollars).

Macron said about 3,000 volunteers will enter the program next summer, with participation expected to rise to 10,000 by 2030 and reach 50,000 by 2035.

France suspended compulsory national service in 1997. The country currently has roughly 200,000 active military personnel and more than 40,000 reservists. (1 euro = 1.16 U.S. dollar) ■