Armed forces globally are adapting to changes in both international and domestic environments, leading to various forms of 21st-century conscription. While conscription remains a mandatory obligation, contemporary societies’ emphasis on choice and individualization has introduced ‘voluntary conscription,’ an oxymoron. This allows conscripts to choose their service date and location, giving them a sense of control over their life’s trajectory. We examine this phenomenon through the case of Estonia, a small state on NATO’s Eastern flank facing credible security threats. The armed forces aim to boost positive attitudes towards state defense and conscription by allowing youth to apply for service before being conscripted. Their reasons for doing so are two-fold: while some conscripts enlist out of patriotism or a desire to contribute to state defense, voluntary enlistment is more frequently motivated by practical considerations such as the chance to select a more convenient period for service in their life path. This, however, does not necessarily indicate military propensity. By delving into the concept of ‘voluntary conscription,’ we contribute to a discussion on how the armed forces are adjusting to changing societies to seek legitimacy and support from the public, ensuring they remain relevant and effective in fulfilling their defense roles.