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One of Central Europe’s most modern military complexes rising on site of former barracks in Hungary
One year after the foundation stone was laid, Hungary is once again building a major military barracks. At the topping-out ceremony of the new special operations base on Thököly Road in Szolnok, Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky described the project as a milestone, declaring: “We promised strength, and we have built strength.”
The minister said the facility is being constructed from domestic funds worth HUF 59 billion. Rather than sending this money abroad or, as he put it, “into someone else’s war”, the investment is staying in Hungary and strengthening the Magyar Honvédség.
He emphasised that Szolnok has long been both a military town and a strategically important city that plays a key role in guaranteeing the security of Hungarian citizens.
Rapid military modernisation
According to the minister, the past four years have marked the most visible period of Hungary’s armed forces development. He argued that before 2010 the military relied largely on outdated, Soviet-era equipment and neglected infrastructure. Today, both land and air capabilities have been fully renewed, while previously discontinued capacities such as artillery have been rebuilt.
Personnel numbers have also increased. Both professional and contracted forces have expanded, while the reserve component has grown significantly. The latest recruitment campaign has already brought in its 8,000th new reservist, most of whom have completed training.
Prepared for a dangerous region
Szalay-Bobrovniczky said the war in a neighbouring country presents a real security risk. Hungary’s goal, he stressed, is to avoid being drawn into the conflict. Maintaining this stance requires what he called a “strong and brave government” capable of resisting external pressure.
The new barracks will serve as the headquarters of Hungary’s special operations forces, units known for rapid reaction times, advanced training and specialised equipment.
The base will also host a regional, multinational special operations component command linking Hungarian troops with allied forces, further strengthening the country’s security.
The most modern base in the region
Chief of Defence Gábor Böröndi said the development will create the most modern special operations base in the region. He added that Hungary is building a national force that combines centuries-old military virtues such as courage, loyalty and self-sacrifice with cutting-edge technology and professional expertise.
The complex will provide secure storage and maintenance for high-tech equipment, drones, specialised communications systems, weapons and combat vehicles. It will also meet the highest information security standards while ensuring continuous readiness and specialised training conditions.
The topping-out wreath placed on the highest point of the structure symbolises that the main buildings are structurally complete. “The wreath on the roof sends a message: the future is being built – the future of the Hungarian Defence Forces, our shared future,” Böröndi said.
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Economic boost for the city
Local officials noted that the former Thököly Road barracks closed two decades ago. In its place, one of Central Europe’s most advanced military facilities is now taking shape, bringing not only national security benefits but also economic opportunities for Szolnok.
The project is being carried out by ZÁÉV Építőipari Zrt. The ceremony concluded with the wreath being blessed and raised onto the tower following a dynamic military demonstration.
Hungary’s leadership made clear that further developments are planned, signalling that the country’s defence modernisation programme is far from over.