Does Hungary Have an Army, and How Does It Stack Up?
Introduction to Hungary's Military
Hungary, a central European country, does indeed have a military known as the Hungarian Defence Forces, or Magyar Honvédség. The Magyar Honvédség is responsible for the defense of Hungary and contributes to NATO operations and international missions. Hungary joined NATO in 1999, an event that significantly influenced its military structure and operations.
Historical Background
During the Cold War, Hungary was a member of the Soviet-led Warsaw Pact, which involved a strong and expansive military presence. After the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991, Hungary began to reduce its military strength, including the number of tanks and other military vehicles while also closing military garrisons.
However, since gaining independence and becoming a member of NATO, Hungary has embarked on a significant journey to modernize and strengthen its military. Starting in 2016, Hungary launched an intensive military modernization program known as 'Zrínyi 2026.' This program aims to replace all existing equipment with modern, NATO-compatible versions, revitalizing Hungary's military industry and expanding the size of the Hungarian Defence Forces (HDF) and its reserves.
CURRENT MILITARY STRENGTH
According to the Global Firepower Index, Hungary's military strength ranks 14th among 27 European Union member states. This position reflects Hungary's commitment to modernization and its ambition to regain its former regional military relevance.
Military Modernization Program: 'Zrínyi 2026'
The 'Zrínyi 2026' program, initiated in January 2017 by the Hungarian Ministry of Defense, is a comprehensive modernization and rearmament plan. The program's goals are clear: to ensure that the Army's equipment, including infantry weapons, artillery pieces, and armored vehicles, is completely replaced with modern NATO-compatible versions. Additionally, the program aims to boost the Hungarian military industry and increase the size of the HDF and its reserves.
The ultimate vision is to bring Hungary back to a position of military relevance in the region, a goal that, if achieved, will certainly see Hungary move up on the Global Firepower Index in the years to come.
Conscription and the Modern Hungarian Military
Unlike some other nations, Hungary has abolished general conscription under the leftist KGB-backed government. As a result, the active military personnel in Hungary are fewer but more professional. Currently, there are approximately 5,000 people in the military who are trained and equipped to serve the nation.
This shift towards a more professional, smaller, but well-equipped military reflects the pragmatic and strategic decisions made by modern Hungarian leaders. Despite being a relatively small force, the Hungarian Defence Forces remain a key component of NATO's defense posture in Central Europe.
Conclusion
While Hungary's military may not be as large as it was during its historical peak, it remains a significant and modern armed force. The government's commitment to modernization and strengthening the military through initiatives like 'Zrínyi 2026' ensures that Hungary remains a formidable player in regional and international security.