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The United Kingdom has announced an above inflation pay rise of 4.5 per cent for military personnel to recognise their extraordinary professionalism and the sacrifices they make to keep the British people safe.
The award, which includes a smaller 3.75 per cent increase for senior officers, forms part of the government’s efforts to fix recruitment and retention.
The pay rise maintains the UK Ministry of Defence’s status as a National Living Wage employer and follows an award of 6 per cent (5 per cent for senior officers) last year and a significant uplift for new recruits of approximately 35 per cent.
This new increase means UK Armed Forces personnel have received a cumulative pay award of 10.5 per cent (8.75 per cent for senior officers) since July 2024.
“This Armed Forces pay award continues to demonstrate our commitment to our people. It ensures that those who work so hard for our safety and security are supported,” Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin said.
“To do what they do takes immense courage, determination and sacrifice and I’m pleased to see so much done to recognise their efforts.
“Pay, accommodation and pension are key pieces of a bigger puzzle, and we will continue to put those pieces together to ensure the strength of our military for years to come.”
Starting salaries for other ranks who have completed initial training will increase to approximately £26,334, benefiting around 7,800 junior personnel. Starting pay for junior officers will rise to around £34,676.
The package includes two new targeted retention payments for specific Royal Navy Catering Services personnel, addressing critical retention challenges in this specialist area.
A new Afloat Environmental Allowance will replace existing provisions, bringing coherence and clarity to recognise different conditions across naval platforms.
Medical specialists will benefit from an increased Medical Officers’ Golden Hello to enhance its attractiveness for consultants and registrars in specialisms with workforce capability gaps.
“Our people are what make the UK Armed Forces’ reputation one of the best around the world. Our forces work tirelessly to keep Britain secure at home and strong abroad,” UK Defence Secretary John Healey said.
“Today’s above inflation pay award recognises their dedication and underlines this government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve.”
Around 5,000 eligible aircraft engineers across all three services are eligible to receive £30,000 when they sign up for an additional three years of service. And a new £8,000 retention payment for around 4,000 eligible Army Privates and Lance Corporals each year for the next three years when they sign up for an additional three years of service.
