Executive Summary
Technical Specialist Retention Program: 85% retention through comprehensive incentives. Components: retention bonuses (€50K+ for 5-year commitment), career pathways (technical warrant officer track), competitive base pay adjustment, professional development funding, housing and family support, and civilian-competitive benefits. Target: 15 critical specialties including cyber, aircraft maintenance, radar, communications, medical, and intelligence.
In short: 85% retention in critical specialties; €50K+ retention bonuses implemented; Technical career pathway created
The Problem
Ukrainian technical personnel crisis: skilled maintainers and cyber specialists were recruited by private sector even during war. Ukrainian logistics commander: 'We lost 30% of our qualified HIMARS maintenance technicians to better-paying civilian jobs. Training replacement takes 18 months. We're fighting with fewer systems because we can't keep mechanics.' Lithuanian retention crisis: cyber specialists leave for 2× private sector pay, aircraft maintainers poached by airlines, radar technicians recruited by telecom. Training cost: €100-300K per specialist. Current retention: 60% after 5 years. Without retention, Lithuania trains specialists for private sector.