KShade
I have never heard of any government offering a program even remotely similar, and especially not one granting citizenship. You might want to keep in mind that five years is a looong time to serve in the army, and the French one hasn't got a rep for being a walk in the park.
I'm assuming you're telling the truth though, but it sounds really odd considering no one under 18 can sign a legally binding contract.
You can sign a legally binding contract if your parents sign as well, and mine did. 17 year olds join the American military with parental consent all the time. As for the French army being tough, I know. I have to take double PE in school to lost weight. They want me fit.
Also, this is the first year the program has been offered. It is an experiment to bring in special forces troopers. I think it's brilliant. Take frustrated teens, like me, offer them something cool to replace their boring lives, and then train them and put them in combat. It worked on me. As for citizenship, it's automatic for all foreigners who serve with any part of the French military for 5 years, or any who are discharged due to wounds.