ISLAMABAD: The federal government has proposed Rs 3 trillion allocations for defence in the 2026-27 federal budget. The allocation reflects a 17.65 percent increase from the previous year’s original allocation of Rs 2.55 trillion. This increase in the defence allocations will, no doubt, bolster the security of Pakistan, enabling the armed forces to cope with challenges on different fronts.
The government increased defence spending amid continuing tensions with India and growing security concerns along the Afghan border. Additionally, authorities cited persistent militant attacks as another reason behind the higher allocation.
Defence Spending Rises Amid Regional Security Challenges
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb presented the budget in the National Assembly on Friday. He praised Pakistan’s armed forces for responding effectively to India’s aggression during recent military tensions.
Furthermore, he said the military’s performance strengthened Pakistan’s international standing. The proposed allocation now exceeds two percent of the country’s projected gross domestic product.
Moreover, defence spending represents nearly 16 percent of the total federal budget worth Rs 18.77 trillion. Budget documents also show the previous allocation increased during the fiscal year through revised estimates.
The latest increase remains lower than last year’s rise. However, it still exceeds the average defence spending growth recorded over the past five years.
Salaries And Equipment Receive Major Share
The government allocated Rs 967.55 billion for salaries and allowances of serving military personnel and civilian employees. This category accounts for the largest share of the defence budget.
Meanwhile, operating expenses will rise to Rs 743.46 billion for transportation, fuel, training and other operational requirements. Authorities also proposed Rs 925.83 billion for purchasing weapons, military equipment and ammunition.
Additionally, spending on military infrastructure and civil works will increase to Rs363.16 billion. The government separately allocated Rs 822 billion for pensions of retired military personnel.
However, budget documents did not disclose spending on Pakistan’s nuclear weapons programme. Like previous years, authorities will finance those expenditures through separate classified allocations.
