State secretary talked about transforming Hungary’s defence capabilities

A key element in transforming Hungary’s defence capabilities is developing the country’s territorial forces, the state secretary for defence policy said at a recruitment event on Saturday.

The Hungarian armed forces are keen on signing up reserve soldiers, who will receive a special benefits package, Zsolt Kutnyánszky, state secretary for defence policy, forces development and the defence industry, said at the Acéltáltos Airsoft Festival in Budapest (Facebook page), adding that training “is flexible and can be completed while working or studying”.

Monthly pay is 150,000 forints (EUR 382) plus a one-year retainer payment of 600,000 before tax, he said, noting that in addition recruits who help further boost reservist numbers can receive a 500,000 forint recommendation bonus up to three times a year. Also, there is a daily allowance for the duration of the call-up.

Higher education students serving during their studies can receive a scholarship of 160,000-350,000 forints per month, as well as extra admission points and the chance of advancement, leading to a higher salary and rank.

Kutnyánszky noted a slew of new investments aimed at creating a modern, effective army, mentioning the recent delivery of three more Leopard tanks, while the first Hungarian-made Lynx rolled off the production line in Zalaegerszeg in the summer. In addition, a medium-caliber ammunition factory has been inaugurated in Varpalota, he noted.

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