The British Army is one of the most respected and professional military forces in the world. It has a long and distinguished history of serving the nation and its allies in times of peace and war. The Army offers a variety of career opportunities and challenges for its personnel, who are rewarded with competitive pay and benefits.
But how much do the highest-ranking officers in the British Army earn? What are the roles and responsibilities of each rank? And what are the qualifications and requirements to reach the top of the Army hierarchy?
10 Highest Rank in Army UK with Salary in 2024
In this article, we will answer these questions and more, by looking at the top 10 highest rank in the Army UK with salary in 2024. We will also provide some information on the current and future challenges facing the Army, and the most frequently asked questions about the Army ranks and pay.
10. Lieutenant Colonel
A Lieutenant Colonel is a senior commissioned officer who commands a battalion or equivalent unit, consisting of around 600 to 800 soldiers. A Lieutenant Colonel is responsible for the training, discipline, welfare, and operational effectiveness of their unit. They also liaise with other units and higher headquarters, and provide advice and support to their subordinates.
The starting salary of a Lieutenant Colonel in 2024 is £83,524 per year. The salary increases with experience and performance, reaching up to £96,556 per year at step 8.
To become a Lieutenant Colonel, one must have at least 16 years of service, and have completed the Intermediate Command and Staff Course (Land) (ICSC(L)), which is a 26-week course that prepares officers for senior command and staff appointments. A Lieutenant Colonel must also have a proven record of leadership, competence, and professionalism.
9. Colonel
A Colonel is a senior commissioned officer who commands a brigade or equivalent formation, consisting of around 3,000 to 5,000 soldiers. A Colonel is responsible for the planning, execution, and control of complex operations, involving multiple units and capabilities. They also oversee the administration, logistics, and support of their formation, and represent their interests at higher levels.
The starting salary of a Colonel in 2024 is £100,979 per year. The salary increases with experience and performance, reaching up to £110,905 per year at step 8.
To become a Colonel, one must have at least 20 years of service, and have completed the Advanced Command and Staff Course (ACSC), which is a 44-week course that develops the strategic and operational skills of officers. A Colonel must also have demonstrated exceptional ability, potential, and judgement.
8. Brigadier
A Brigadier is a senior commissioned officer who commands a division or equivalent formation, consisting of around 10,000 to 20,000 soldiers. A Brigadier is responsible for the direction, coordination, and integration of large-scale operations, involving multiple formations and joint or coalition partners. They also provide strategic guidance, direction, and oversight to their subordinate commanders and staff.
The starting salary of a Brigadier in 2024 is £120,143 per year. The salary increases with experience and performance, reaching up to £124,964 per year at step 6.
To become a Brigadier, one must have at least 24 years of service, and have completed the Higher Command and Staff Course (HCSC), which is a 10-week course that prepares officers for the highest levels of command and staff appointments. A Brigadier must also have demonstrated outstanding leadership, vision, and influence.
7. Major General
A Major General is a senior commissioned officer who commands a corps or equivalent formation, consisting of around 50,000 to 100,000 soldiers. A Major General is responsible for the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of strategic and operational plans, policies, and objectives, involving multiple divisions and joint or coalition partners. They also provide direction, guidance, and support to their subordinate commanders and staff, and advise the Chief of the General Staff and other senior officials.
The starting salary of a Major General in 2024 is £145,000 per year. The salary increases with experience and performance, reaching up to £154,999 per year.
To become a Major General, one must have at least 28 years of service, and have completed the Royal College of Defence Studies (RCDS), which is a one-year course that develops the strategic and international skills of senior officers. A Major General must also have demonstrated exceptional strategic and operational acumen, and the ability to operate at the highest levels of defence and government.
6. Lieutenant General
A Lieutenant General is a senior commissioned officer who commands a theatre or equivalent command, consisting of multiple corps and joint or coalition partners. A Lieutenant General is responsible for the development, execution, and assessment of strategic and operational plans, policies, and objectives, involving national and international interests and issues. They also provide leadership, direction, and support to their subordinate commanders and staff, and advise the Chief of the Defence Staff and other senior officials.
The starting salary of a Lieutenant General in 2024 is £180,000 per year. The salary increases with experience and performance, reaching up to £194,999 per year.
To become a Lieutenant General, one must have at least 32 years of service, and have completed the National Defence College (NDC), which is a two-year course that develops the strategic and national skills of senior officers. A Lieutenant General must also have demonstrated outstanding strategic and operational leadership, and the ability to operate at the highest levels of defence and government.
5. General
A General is the highest rank in the British Army, and the second-highest rank in the British Armed Forces, after the Marshal of the Royal Air Force. A General is the head of the British Army, and holds the title of Chief of the General Staff (CGS). A General is responsible for the overall direction, management, and performance of the Army, and its contribution to the defence and security of the UK and its allies. They also provide strategic advice, guidance, and support to the Chief of the Defence Staff and other senior officials, and represent the Army at national and international forums.
The starting salary of a General in 2024 is £195,000 per year. The salary increases with experience and performance, reaching up to £199,999 per year.
To become a General, one must have at least 36 years of service, and have completed the Senior Defence Course (SDC), which is a three-year course that develops the strategic and national skills of senior officers. A General must also have demonstrated exceptional strategic and operational leadership, and the ability to operate at the highest levels of defence and government.
4. Field Marshal
A Field Marshal is a honorary rank in the British Army, and the highest rank in the British Armed Forces, along with the Admiral of the Fleet and the Marshal of the Royal Air Force. A Field Marshal is not a substantive rank, but a ceremonial and honorary title, conferred by the Sovereign on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. A Field Marshal is usually a retired General who has rendered distinguished and exceptional service to the nation and the Army. A Field Marshal does not have any specific duties or responsibilities, but may act as an advisor, mentor, or ambassador for the Army and the Armed Forces.
The salary of a Field Marshal in 2024 is not publicly disclosed, but it is likely to be similar to that of a General, or slightly higher. The last person to be promoted to Field Marshal was Lord Guthrie of Craigiebank in 2012, who was the Chief of the Defence Staff from 1997 to 2001.
To become a Field Marshal, one must have been a General who has served as the Chief of the General Staff, the Chief of the Defence Staff, or another senior command or staff appointment, and have made an extraordinary contribution to the Army and the Armed Forces, in terms of leadership, vision, and influence.
Challenges Facing the British Army in 2024 and Beyond
The British Army is facing a number of challenges in 2024 and beyond, as it adapts to the changing security environment and the evolving needs and expectations of the nation and its allies. Some of the main challenges are:
– Modernising and transforming the Army to be more agile, adaptable, and integrated, with a focus on information, innovation, and interoperability, as outlined in the Army 2025 Refine plan and the Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy.
– Balancing the demands of current and future operations, both at home and abroad, in a complex and uncertain world, where the threats are diverse, dynamic, and hybrid, and the opportunities are limited, competitive, and contested.
– Recruiting and retaining the right people, with the right skills, values, and behaviours, to meet the current and future needs of the Army and the Armed Forces, in a challenging and competitive labour market, and a changing society and culture.
– Developing and sustaining the morale, welfare, and well-being of the Army personnel and their families, who are the most valuable and vital asset of the Army and the Armed Forces, and who face increasing pressures and expectations, both professionally and personally.
– Enhancing and strengthening the reputation, influence, and credibility of the Army Enhancing and strengthening the reputation, influence, and credibility of the Army and the Armed Forces, both domestically and internationally, by demonstrating the value, relevance, and professionalism of the Army and the Armed Forces, and by engaging with the public, the media, the government, and the allies.
– Managing and optimising the resources, capabilities, and infrastructure of the Army and the Armed Forces, in a constrained and competitive fiscal environment, where the demands are increasing, and the choices are difficult.
These challenges require the Army and the Armed Forces to be more flexible, responsive, and resilient, and to work more closely and effectively with other services, departments, agencies, and partners, both at home and abroad.
Conclusion
The British Army is a proud and prestigious institution, with a rich and remarkable history, and a bright and promising future. The Army offers a rewarding and fulfilling career for its personnel, who are well-trained, well-equipped, and well-paid.
The Army ranks and pay reflect the level of responsibility, authority, and expertise of each officer, as well as the length of service, performance, and potential. The highest rank in the Army UK is the General, who is the Chief of the General Staff, and the head of the Army. The highest rank in the Armed Forces is the Field Marshal, who is an honorary and ceremonial title, conferred by the Sovereign on the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
The Army and the Armed Forces face a number of challenges in 2024 and beyond, as they adapt to the changing security environment and the evolving needs and expectations of the nation and its allies. The Army and the Armed Forces need to be more agile, adaptable, and integrated, and to balance the demands of current and future operations, both at home and abroad.
The Army and the Armed Forces are committed to serving the nation and its allies, and to protecting the security and prosperity of the UK and the world.
Most Asked Questions and Answers about the Army Ranks and Pay
Q: How do you join the British Army?
A: To join the British Army, you need to meet the eligibility criteria, which include age, nationality, health, fitness, education, and background. You also need to apply online, attend an assessment centre, and pass a selection process. You can find more information on the official website of the Army.
Q: How long is the training for the British Army?
A: The training for the British Army varies depending on the role and the level of entry. The basic training for soldiers lasts for 14 weeks, and the basic training for officers lasts for 44 weeks. The specialist training for different trades and branches can last from a few weeks to a few years.
Q: How do you get promoted in the British Army?
A: To get promoted in the British Army, you need to meet the requirements for the next rank, which include service, experience, performance, potential, and qualifications. You also need to pass a promotion board, which assesses your suitability and readiness for the next rank.
Q: How do you leave the British Army?
A: To leave the British Army, you need to give a notice period, which depends on your rank and length of service. The notice period can range from 12 months to 3 months. You also need to complete an exit interview, a resettlement programme, and a discharge process.
Q: How much pension do you get from the British Army?
A: The pension you get from the British Army depends on your rank, length of service, and the pension scheme you are in. The Army has two pension schemes: the Armed Forces Pension Scheme 1975 (AFPS 75) and the Armed Forces Pension Scheme 2015 (AFPS 15). You can find more information on the official website of the Ministry of Defence.
Q: How do you become an officer in the British Army?
A: To become an officer in the British Army, you need to have a minimum of 5 GCSEs (including English and Maths) and 2 A-levels (or equivalent), and be aged between 18 and 29. You also need to apply online, attend an assessment centre, and pass a selection process, which includes the Army Officer Selection Board (AOSB). You can find more information on the official website of the Army.
Q: What are the benefits of joining the British Army?
A: The benefits of joining the British Army include:
– Competitive pay and allowances
– Generous pension and leave entitlements
– Free medical and dental care
– Subsidised accommodation and food
– Access to sports and fitness facilities
– Opportunities for travel and adventure
– Education and training opportunities
– Career development and progression
– Recognition and rewards
– Camaraderie and teamwork
Q: What are the risks of joining the British Army?
A: The risks of joining the British Army include:
– Physical and mental injuries
– Exposure to danger and violence
– Separation from family and friends
– Stress and pressure
– Uncertainty and unpredictability
– Discipline and rules
– Sacrifice and commitment
Q: What are the different branches and trades in the British Army?
A: The British Army has 17 branches and over 200 trades, which cover a wide range of roles and skills. The branches are:
– Infantry
– Royal Armoured Corps
– Royal Artillery
– Army Air Corps
– Royal Engineers
– Royal Signals
– Intelligence Corps
– Royal Logistic Corps
– Army Medical Services
– Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers
– Adjutant General’s Corps
– Royal Army Veterinary Corps
– Small Arms School Corps
– Royal Army Physical Training Corps
– General Service Corps
– Army Legal Services
– Royal Army Chaplains’ Department
The trades are too numerous to list here, but you can find more information on the official website of the Army.
Q: What are the values and standards of the British Army?
A: The values and standards of the British Army are the core principles that guide the conduct and behaviour of all Army personnel. The values are:
– Courage: the physical and moral strength to overcome fear and adversity
– Discipline: the self-control and obedience to follow orders and rules
– Respect for others: the dignity and worth of all people, and the tolerance and understanding of diversity
– Integrity: the honesty and truthfulness of one’s actions and words
– Loyalty: the faithfulness and devotion to one’s duty, team, and country
– Selfless commitment: the willingness to put the needs of others before one’s own
The standards are:
– Lawful: complying with the law of the land and the rules of engagement
– Appropriate: behaving in a manner that is fitting and proper for the situation and the culture
– Professional: performing one’s role with competence and excellence
– Ethical: acting in a way that is morally right and just