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Armed Forces personnel receive third consecutive above inflation pay rise

Starting salaries for non-commissioned ranks will rise by nearly £1,000 to £27,282, while junior officers will see a £1,250 increase to £35,926.

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The Government has confirmed that Armed Forces personnel will receive a 3.6% pay rise this year, marking the third consecutive above-inflation increase. 

The pay award is backdated to 1st April 2026 and brings the average salary up by £1,650 to £45,710. 

Starting salaries for non-commissioned ranks will rise by nearly £1,000 to £27,282, while junior officers will see a £1,250 increase to £35,926.

Defence Secretary John Healey, said: “Our people are the heart of our defence. I am deeply grateful to our Armed Forces, who make extraordinary sacrifices along with their families to keep our nation safe 24/7. 

“As demands on defence rise, we ask more of our personnel. 

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“This third inflation-busting pay award recognises their dedication and skill, and demonstrates this Government’s commitment to renew the nation’s contract with those who serve.”

Healey added: “We inherited a deep recruitment and retention crisis, with targets set and missed every year for 14 years, but we are turning that around. 

“Through our record defence investment, we are delivering better pay, better housing and better conditions. 

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“This is a government getting on with the job – delivering for our forces.”

Chief of the Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, said: “This pay award is an important part of how we recognise the important role and the valuable service the people of our armed forces play in keeping our country safe. 

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“Our people serve with great professionalism, dedication and courage. 

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“Pay, accommodation, family support and welfare are all part of the support that helps ensure that our people are ready for whatever we ask of them. We will continue to work to make sure that this meets the needs of our people.”

The package includes a 3.6% rise in targeted payments for specialist roles, a retention payment for Royal Navy submariners, and new pay arrangements for nursing specialists.