Macedonia is stepping up investment in military infrastructure, with more than 100 million denars planned for improvements at the Jane Sandanski Barracks in Shtip. Defence Minister Vlado Misajlovski said the projects are aimed at creating better conditions for Army personnel while modernizing facilities across the country.
During a visit to the barracks, Misajlovski and First Infantry Brigade Commander Brigadier General Dejan Čiplakovski inspected a recently renovated building. The project included a complete reconstruction of Building 35, with an investment of 33.7 million denars. The work included a new energy efficient facade, upgraded electrical installations, renovated sanitary facilities and other construction improvements.
Shtip Barracks Set for Further Upgrades
The Shtip barracks is set to receive further upgrades. According to Misajlovski, a contract has already been signed for the replacement of the roof of the soldiers’ restaurant. Plans also include the construction and adaptation of new hangars. Together, these projects will bring total investment at the barracks to more than 100 million denars.
The investment is part of a wider effort by the Ministry of Defense to improve military infrastructure throughout Macedonia. The ministry has previously identified barracks and other defense facilities as important areas for reconstruction, renovation and energy efficiency improvements.
The government says the focus on infrastructure is also connected to the broader modernization of the Army. In its plans for 2026, the Defense Ministry has highlighted continued investment in military capabilities, infrastructure, mobility, communications, personal protective equipment and other areas. The ministry has also said the defense budget for 2026 is planned at €358 million, with €116 million earmarked for modernization.
The Jane Sandanski Barracks has an important role in the country’s military structure. In 2025, it hosted the send off of a Macedonian contingent of around 280 soldiers taking part in the Saber Junction exercise in Germany. The event included personnel, vehicles and equipment and highlighted the barracks’ role in supporting the Army’s international commitments and cooperation with NATO allies.
The latest renovation therefore goes beyond improving the appearance of individual buildings. Energy efficient construction, upgraded electrical systems, improved sanitary facilities and better working spaces can contribute to more functional and sustainable military facilities. For personnel stationed at the barracks, the changes are expected to improve everyday working and living conditions.
Misajlovski said cooperation between the Ministry of Defense and the Army’s General Staff is helping accelerate infrastructure projects. He also announced that more than €12 million will be invested in Army infrastructure projects during this year and next year, indicating that the government intends to continue the modernization program across several locations.
The developments in Shtip are part of a broader transformation of Macedonia’s defense sector, which combines infrastructure upgrades with investment in equipment and military capabilities. The government is presenting the program as a long term effort to strengthen the Army and improve conditions for its personnel.
The investment at the Jane Sandanski Barracks marks another step in that process. With more than 100 million denars planned for the Shtip facility alone and additional projects expected elsewhere, the focus is increasingly shifting toward modern, energy efficient and functional military infrastructure. The success of the program will ultimately depend on how efficiently the projects are completed and whether the investments deliver lasting improvements for Army personnel and the country’s defense capabilities.
