Military reforms

• Dmitry Milyutin reorganised the armed forces to create a smaller, more professional, more efficient and less expensive army
• Conscription was made compulsory for all classes (including nobles) from age of 21 but the length of service was reduced from 25 years to 15 years of active service and 10 years in the reserves. Punishments were made less severe and the system of military colonies was abandoned. Better provisioning and medical care was established.
• Military colleges set up to provide better training for the non-noble officer corps Literacy within the Army was improved with mass army-education campaigns
• Officer class remained mainly aristocratic  Problems with leadership and supplies continued