Armed forces to receive 4.5% pay rise to support recruitment

Armed forces personnel are set to get a 4.5% pay rise this year, with senior officers receiving 3.75%, as part of Government efforts to recognise their work and address recruitment and retention. 

The pay rise ensures all full-time members are paid at least the national living wage, and brings the cumulative pay award for personnel to 10.5% since July 2024, and 8.75% for senior officers.

Starting salaries for other ranks who have completed initial training will go up to about £26,334, covering around 7,800 junior personnel. 

Starting pay for junior officers will rise to roughly £34,676.

Two new targeted retention payments have been introduced for specific royal navy catering services personnel to address retention challenges. 

Additionally, a new afloat environmental allowance will replace existing provisions to bring more clarity for naval staff. 

Medical specialists will see an increase in the medical Officers’ Golden Hello to attract consultants and registrars in key specialisms.

Defence Secretary John Healey said: “Our people are what make the UK Armed Forces’ reputation one of the best around the world.