Joseph: Whoa. Let’s not conflate two issues. First is whether or not it’s Muttar to learn while living off money from the Tzibbur. The second is whether or not learning gives a Ptur from the army. Just because contemporary society equates both with “Kollel” does not mean they are the same. Not in the slightest.
Also, the Rambam in Bikkurim is referring to those who want to teach Torah, not learn it.