I've spent 15 years as a defense analyst, and after tracking budgets across NATO allies, I believe mandatory military service is a failed policy for modern threats. Conscription fills ranks with reluctant recruits who need expensive training, while volunteer forces with better pay and benefits consistently show higher readiness and morale. The debate always returns to civic duty, but in an era of drones and cyber warfare, we need skilled professionals, not compelled amateurs. I'd rather see countries invest in specialized reserves than force 18-year-olds into barracks for a year of make-work.