Pilots whose initial contracts expire in fiscal 2024 or 2025 can sign new agreements to serve for another four to 12 years. Pilots, air battle managers and combat systems operators who sign new contracts will receive between $15,000 and $50,000 annually for three to 12 years. VA officials said hiring and retention levels are at record highs, but workers groups say even more staff is needed to keep up. The services are looking to add about 12,000 troops to their ranks this year. America's defense communities have long been one of the largest sources for military recruiting. By Karen Holt
19 months ago The service has nibbled at the edges of a 2,000-pilot shortage for years. Numbers are falling but have not returned to pre-pandemic rates. The National Guard is going to be about 9,000 troops short on its end-strength goal for the year. The incoming chief of the service said he needs to maintain recruiting flexibility to get individuals with technical skills into the ranks. Lawmakers are questioning whether tattoo policies are slowing military recruiting. Load More