British forces recruitment rises as intake overtakes outflow

UK Armed Forces recruitment has overtaken personnel outflow for the first time in almost four years, according to figures released by the Ministry of Defence in a written parliamentary answer.

Responding to a question from Conservative MP Matt Vickers, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State Louise Sandher-Jones said that “for the first time since early 2021, Armed Forces intake is now greater than outflow”

She told Parliament that in the 12 months to 1 October 2025, “there was an increase of 13% in people joining the Armed Forces compared to the previous 12-month period”, while at the same time “there was a decrease of 8% in people leaving the Armed Forces”.

The minister added that application levels are also rising, saying the Armed Forces “continue to see increased numbers of applications”.

While welcoming the figures, Sandher-Jones cautioned that challenges remain. “These trends are very welcome, but we recognise that there is still more to do,” she said.

She said the government remains focused on workforce stability across defence, adding: “We are committed to improving recruitment and retention through a range of targets, initiatives and measures and we are making a positive impact.”

The figures come amid wider efforts by the Ministry of Defence to address long-standing recruitment and retention pressures, as defence leaders warn that personnel numbers are critical to sustaining readiness.