What Makes a Military “Highest Paid”?
When we talk about the highest paid military in the world, we are not just referring to the basic monthly salary of a soldier. Total military compensation is a holistic package that includes several components:
- Base / Basic Pay: The core monthly or annual salary before allowances.
- Housing Allowance (BAH or equivalent): Many militaries provide free on-base housing or cash housing allowances for personnel who live off-base.
- Subsistence / Food Allowance: Monthly payments to cover the cost of food for service members.
- Combat / Hazard Pay: Additional pay for soldiers deployed to conflict zones or high-risk areas.
- Special Duty Pay: Extra compensation for pilots, divers, special forces operators, nuclear personnel, and other specialized roles.
- Education Benefits: Tuition assistance, scholarships, or funded university degrees.
- Healthcare: Free or heavily subsidized medical and dental care for service members and their families.
- Pension / Retirement Plan: Long-term financial security after completing service.
- Sign-On Bonuses: One-time incentive payments offered to attract recruits into specific roles.
The countries on this list stand out because they excel across multiple dimensions of this compensation package, not just raw salary.
Key Factors That Determine Military Salaries Globally
Military salaries around the world are shaped by several macroeconomic and strategic factors:
- Defense Budget Size: Countries with larger defense budgets can allocate more resources to personnel welfare. The United States, for instance, maintains a defense budget exceeding $800 billion annually.
- Cost of Living: Countries with a high cost of living (Switzerland, Norway, Singapore, Australia) tend to pay their military personnel more to ensure a decent standard of living.
- Military Strategy: Nations that rely on small, highly professional and technologically advanced forces (like Israel and Singapore) tend to pay much more per soldier than countries with large conscript armies.
- GDP Per Capita: Wealthier nations generally offer better pay across all public sector roles, including the military.
- NATO Commitments: NATO member states are increasingly meeting the 2% of GDP defense spending target, which translates to improved soldier pay in countries like Norway, Germany, and the UK.
- Rank and Experience: In every military, officers earn significantly more than enlisted personnel, and pay rises with years of service.
Top 10 Highest Paid Militaries in the World 2026
Below is the definitive ranking of the highest paid militaries in the world for 2026, starting with the number one position.
1. United States Armed Forces, The World’s Highest Paid Military in 2026
The United States Armed Forces — comprising the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Space Force, is the undisputed number one highest paid military in the world in 2026. With the largest defense budget on the planet exceeding $800 billion, the U.S. invests heavily not only in weapons and technology but in the welfare and pay of its service members.
In 2026, all U.S. military branches received a 3.8% pay increase, reflecting the government’s commitment to keeping military compensation competitive with the civilian sector.
United States Military Salary Structure (2026)
| Pay Grade / Rank | Monthly Basic Pay (USD) | Annual Basic Pay (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| E-1 (Private / Seaman Recruit), Entry Level | $2,407 | ~$28,884 |
| E-6 (Staff Sergeant / Petty Officer 1st Class), 10+ yrs | $4,759 | ~$57,108 |
| E-9 (Sergeant Major / Master Chief), 20+ yrs | $8,990 | ~$107,880 |
| O-1 (2nd Lieutenant / Ensign), Entry Officer | $4,150 | ~$49,800 |
| O-4 (Major / Lieutenant Commander) | $7,000 – $8,500 | ~$84,000 – $102,000 |
| O-6 (Colonel / Navy Captain) | $10,000 – $13,000 | ~$120,000 – $156,000 |
| O-10 (4-Star General / Admiral), 20+ yrs | $18,491 | ~$221,892 |
US Military Allowances and Benefits (2026)
- BAH (Basic Allowance for Housing): 2026 BAH rates increased an average of 4.3% over 2025 levels. Rates vary by duty station and pay grade across 300+ Military Housing Areas.
- BAS (Basic Allowance for Subsistence): Enlisted members receive $460.25/month; officers receive $317.64/month in 2026.
- Combat Pay: Additional pay for service in hostile fire/imminent danger zones.
- GI Bill: Funds full university tuition for veterans, one of the most valuable education benefits in the world.
- TRICARE: Comprehensive free healthcare for service members, retirees, and their families.
- 30 Days Paid Leave: Annually, plus federal holidays.
- Pension: Service members who serve 20+ years receive a lifetime pension of up to 50% of base pay.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): A retirement savings and investment plan with government matching contributions.
When housing, food, healthcare, and education benefits are factored in, the total compensation package of a U.S. military E-5 with four years of service can exceed $80,000 per year in real value, far above the basic pay figure alone. For officers, the total package can run well over $150,000 per year at mid-career.
2. Canadian Armed Forces, World’s Second Highest Paid Military
The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) — consisting of the Canadian Army, Royal Canadian Navy, and Royal Canadian Air Force, ranks second among the highest paid militaries in the world in 2026. Canada places a strong emphasis on soldier welfare, professional development, and family support, making it one of the most attractive military employers globally.
Canada’s military pay scales, updated effective April 1, 2025, show some of the highest entry-level salaries of any military on earth. A Private (basic recruit) starts at CAD $4,337/month — approximately $3,200 USD, and can quickly rise to CAD $5,994/month with experience increments within the same rank.
Canadian Armed Forces Salary Structure (2026)
| Rank / Level | Monthly Basic Pay (CAD) | Approx. USD/Month |
|---|---|---|
| Private (Recruit, Entry) | CAD $4,337 – $5,994 | ~$3,200 – $4,400 |
| Corporal (Standard) | CAD $6,858 – $7,337 | ~$5,050 – $5,400 |
| Corporal (Special Forces) | CAD $9,254 – $10,118 | ~$6,800 – $7,450 |
| Search and Rescue Corporal | CAD $11,387 – $15,246 | ~$8,380 – $11,220 |
| Lieutenant (Officer Entry) | CAD $7,000 – $8,500 | ~$5,150 – $6,250 |
| Major | CAD $10,000 – $12,000 | ~$7,360 – $8,830 |
| Colonel and above | CAD $14,000+ | ~$10,300+ |
Canadian Armed Forces Benefits
- Free medical and dental coverage for service members and families
- Family relocation support (when posted to a new base)
- Fully funded education and professional development
- Excellent defined-benefit retirement pension plan
- Subsidized housing on base
- 30 days paid annual leave
- Life insurance and disability coverage
Canada’s CAD entry salary of $4,337+ for a private makes it arguably the most generous military for entry-level enlisted pay in the world when adjusted for purchasing power. The country’s military is particularly known for treating its personnel well and offering strong career pathways for both officers and non-commissioned members.
3. United Kingdom Armed Forces, Europe’s Most Prestigious Military
The United Kingdom Armed Forces — comprising the British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force, is one of the most respected and best-paid militaries in the world. The UK is a permanent member of the UN Security Council, a NATO founding member, and a global military power, all of which translate into strong investment in personnel welfare.
UK Armed Forces Salary Structure (2026)
| Rank / Level | Monthly Pay (GBP) | Approx. USD/Month |
|---|---|---|
| Private / Trooper (Entry Level) | £2,500 – £3,200 | ~$3,000 – $3,800 |
| Corporal | £3,200 – £4,000 | ~$3,800 – $4,800 |
| Sergeant | £4,200 – £5,000 | ~$5,000 – $6,000 |
| Second Lieutenant (Officer Entry) | £3,500 – £4,200 | ~$4,200 – $5,000 |
| Captain | £5,000 – £6,500 | ~$6,000 – $7,800 |
| Colonel | £8,000 – £10,000 | ~$9,500 – $12,000 |
| General / Admiral / Air Marshal | £12,000 – £16,000+ | ~$14,400 – $19,200+ |
UK Armed Forces Benefits
- Free or heavily subsidised accommodation on base
- Free meals and ration allowances
- Travel and overseas deployment allowances
- Generous Armed Forces Pension Scheme (AFPS)
- Free healthcare through NHS and dedicated military medical units
- Career development and funded education
- X-Factor supplement, an additional 14.5% pay uplift on top of base salary to compensate for the unique demands of military life
One standout feature of UK military pay is the X-Factor supplement — a 14.5% enhancement on top of base pay that acknowledges the unique demands, risks, and restrictions of military service. Combined with free accommodation and full healthcare, the total compensation package is highly competitive within Europe.
4. Australian Defence Force (ADF), Asia-Pacific’s Highest Paid Military
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) — comprising the Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy, and Royal Australian Air Force, is the highest paid military in the Asia-Pacific region and one of the top four globally. Australia’s high cost of living, strong economy, and government commitment to defense mean ADF personnel enjoy some of the most generous compensation packages in the world.
Australian Defence Force Salary Structure (2026)
| Rank / Level | Annual Pay (AUD) | Approx. USD/Year |
|---|---|---|
| Private / Seaman Recruit (Entry) | AUD $55,000 – $65,000 | ~$35,000 – $42,000 |
| Corporal / Leading Seaman | AUD $80,000 – $100,000 | ~$52,000 – $65,000 |
| Sergeant / Petty Officer | AUD $100,000 – $120,000 | ~$65,000 – $78,000 |
| Lieutenant (Officer Entry) | AUD $90,000 – $110,000 | ~$58,000 – $72,000 |
| Major / Lieutenant Commander | AUD $130,000 – $160,000 | ~$85,000 – $104,000 |
| Colonel / Captain (Navy) | AUD $160,000 – $195,000 | ~$104,000 – $127,000 |
| General / Admiral | AUD $200,000+ | ~$130,000+ |
Australian Defence Force Benefits
- Tax-free allowances for overseas and remote deployments
- Free comprehensive healthcare for service members
- Subsidized or free on-base housing
- Generous superannuation (retirement savings) scheme
- Education support and professional development funding
- Family relocation allowances
- 30 days paid leave per year
Australia’s military also benefits from strong regional demand for defense professionals, and the ADF actively recruits specialist talent (doctors, engineers, pilots, cyber experts) with significantly enhanced salary packages above the standard scales listed above.
5. Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), Asia’s Highest Per-Capita Military Pay
The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) is a standout on this list, not because of raw numbers but because of its extraordinary pay structure relative to the size and population of the country. Singapore spends over $2,500 per capita on defense, one of the highest rates in the world, and this investment flows directly to military personnel pay.
Following the Public Service Division (PSD) salary review in 2025, SAF regular salaries were increased by approximately 2% to 9% to remain competitive with Singapore’s private sector, one of the most competitive job markets in Asia.
Singapore Armed Forces Salary Structure (2026)
| Rank / Role | Monthly Gross Salary (SGD) | Approx. USD/Month |
|---|---|---|
| Private / Recruit (NSF Conscript) | SGD $560 – $630 | ~$420 – $470 |
| 3rd Sergeant (Specialist Cadet) | SGD $2,090 – $3,260 | ~$1,550 – $2,420 |
| Lieutenant (Officer, Regular Entry) | SGD $3,070 – $3,280 | ~$2,280 – $2,440 |
| Captain (Regular Officer, 4–6 yrs) | SGD $5,000 – $7,000 | ~$3,720 – $5,210 |
| Major (MDP Scale, 8–10 yrs) | SGD $7,000 – $10,000 | ~$5,210 – $7,440 |
| Lieutenant Colonel (15 yrs service) | SGD $14,000 – $18,000* | ~$10,420 – $13,390 |
| Colonel / Senior Colonel | SGD $18,000 – $25,000* | ~$13,400 – $18,600 |
*Total compensation including allowances, CPF contributions, and bonuses. Source: MINDEF / SkillUp.sg, June 2026
Singapore Armed Forces Benefits
- SAVER Plan (Officers): 15% of salary contributed into a retirement savings account from the first year of service, with SAVER bonuses at ages 25, 28, 31, and 34.
- Premium Plan (Specialists): Enhanced retirement contributions commencing from the 1st year of service (improved from 2026).
- CPF Contributions: Central Provident Fund employer contributions on top of salary.
- Sign-On Bonus: Ranging from SGD $6,000 to SGD $36,000 depending on role.
- Flying/Sea/Special Forces Allowances: Additional SGD $6,000 – $30,000+ annually for specialized roles.
- MediSave-cum-Subsidised Outpatient (MSO): 2% of salary paid into MediSave monthly; 85% subsidy on outpatient treatment.
- Flexible Benefits Scheme (FLEX): Tiered welfare allowance based on years of service.
Singapore’s military compensation system is uniquely structured, while entry-level conscript pay is modest, regular (career) officers and specialists are among the most generously paid military personnel in Asia. A Lieutenant Colonel with 15 years of service can earn SGD $130,000 – $180,000 in total annual compensation.
6. Norwegian Armed Forces, Northern Europe’s Military Pay Leader
Norway is renowned for its high standard of living, and its Armed Forces (Forsvaret) are no exception. With defense spending per capita of approximately $1,583 per person (among the highest in Europe), Norway’s military personnel enjoy highly competitive salaries and exceptional welfare benefits.
Norway is also one of the few NATO countries that has consistently met (and exceeded) its 2% of GDP defense spending target, meaning continued salary growth for military personnel in the coming years.
Norwegian Armed Forces Salary Structure (2026)
| Rank / Level | Annual Pay (NOK) | Approx. USD/Year |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level Enlisted | NOK 229,000 – 350,000 | ~$21,000 – $32,000 |
| Experienced Non-Commissioned Officer | NOK 450,000 – 650,000 | ~$41,000 – $60,000 |
| Officer (Average) | NOK 497,600 | ~$45,900 |
| Senior Officer | NOK 650,000 – 793,800 | ~$59,900 – $73,200 |
| Colonel / Brigadier General | NOK 800,000 – 1,000,000 | ~$73,800 – $92,200 |
Norwegian Armed Forces Benefits
- High housing subsidies for officers and families
- Ample vacation time (5–6 weeks per year)
- Excellent family care and parental leave benefits
- Strong pension and post-service employment support
- Paid professional development and education
- Free healthcare under Norway’s national health system
Norway’s armed forces are particularly notable for how the Navy leads in earnings — due to high operational tempo and the proportion of personnel in sea-going positions. Senior naval officers in Norway rank among the best-compensated military professionals in all of Europe.
7. German Bundeswehr, NATO’s Central European Pay Powerhouse
Germany’s Bundeswehr (Federal Defence) is a technologically advanced, professionally structured military that forms the backbone of NATO’s central European defense. As Germany meets its 2% NATO spending target, military pay has improved significantly, making the Bundeswehr one of Europe’s best-paying armed forces.
German Bundeswehr Salary Structure (2026)
| Rank / Level | Monthly Pay (EUR) | Approx. USD/Month |
|---|---|---|
| Gefreiter (Private, Entry) | €2,800 – €3,500 | ~$3,060 – $3,820 |
| Unteroffizier (Corporal) | €3,500 – €4,200 | ~$3,820 – $4,590 |
| Feldwebel (Sergeant) | €4,000 – €5,000 | ~$4,370 – $5,460 |
| Leutnant (2nd Lieutenant, Entry Officer) | €3,800 – €4,500 | ~$4,150 – $4,920 |
| Hauptmann (Captain) | €5,000 – €6,500 | ~$5,460 – $7,100 |
| Oberst (Colonel) | €8,000 – €9,500 | ~$8,740 – $10,380 |
| General | €12,000 – €15,000+ | ~$13,100 – $16,400+ |
German Bundeswehr Benefits
- Comprehensive free healthcare and insurance
- Family welfare and on-base housing support
- Education scholarships, Bundeswehr funds university degrees for officers at the Bundeswehr Universities in Hamburg and Munich
- Strong pension and disability benefits
- International deployment allowances under NATO missions
- Job security as federal civil servants after certain years of service
A distinctive feature of the German military is the Bundeswehr Universities (Helmut Schmidt University and University of the Bundeswehr Munich) — fully funded for officer cadets. This education benefit, combined with solid pay, makes the Bundeswehr one of the most attractive military careers in Continental Europe.
8. French Armed Forces, Europe’s Nuclear-Armed Pay Leader
The French Armed Forces (Forces Armées Françaises) — comprising the French Army, Navy, Air and Space Force, and the National Gendarmerie, are among the best compensated in Europe. France maintains an independent nuclear deterrent, conducts regular operations in Africa (Operation Barkhane and successors) and the Middle East, and maintains permanent military bases across multiple continents. These strategic commitments attract generous pay packages, particularly for deployed personnel.
French Armed Forces Salary Structure (2026)
| Rank / Level | Monthly Pay (EUR) | Approx. USD/Month |
|---|---|---|
| Soldat (Private, Entry) | €2,600 – €3,200 | ~$2,840 – $3,500 |
| Sergent (Sergeant) | €3,500 – €4,500 | ~$3,820 – $4,920 |
| Adjudant (Warrant Officer) | €4,500 – €5,500 | ~$4,920 – $6,010 |
| Sous-Lieutenant (2nd Lieutenant, Entry Officer) | €3,500 – €4,000 | ~$3,820 – $4,370 |
| Capitaine (Captain) | €4,500 – €6,000 | ~$4,920 – $6,560 |
| Colonel | €7,000 – €9,000 | ~$7,650 – $9,830 |
| Général de Corps d’Armée (3-Star General) | €12,000 – €15,000+ | ~$13,100 – $16,400+ |
French Armed Forces Benefits
- Free on-base accommodation and meals for single personnel
- Foreign mission (OPEX) allowances, a significant salary supplement for overseas deployments
- Family medical care and insurance
- Funded education and specialized training
- Special allowances for nuclear force personnel
- Generous military pension after 15–27 years of service (depending on category)
French personnel deployed on overseas operations receive OPEX (Opérations Extérieures) allowances that can double their monthly take-home pay during deployment. This makes the French military particularly attractive for those seeking high earnings through active operational service.
9. Israel Defense Forces (IDF), The Middle East’s Highest Paid Military
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) operates in a unique strategic environment. Israel spends approximately $5,000 per capita on defense — the highest defense spending per person on earth, and a significant portion of this investment flows to IDF personnel in the form of salaries, housing, and post-service benefits.
Israel has mandatory military service, men serve 32 months and women serve 24 months. After conscript service, career (regular) IDF soldiers earn increasingly competitive salaries as they rise through the ranks.
Israel Defense Forces Salary Structure (2026)
| Rank / Level | Monthly Pay (ILS) | Approx. USD/Month |
|---|---|---|
| Corporal / Conscript (Basic) | ILS 1,000 – 3,500 | ~$270 – $950 |
| Sergeant First Class (Samal Rishon) | ILS 5,000 – 8,000 | ~$1,360 – $2,170 |
| 2nd Lieutenant (Segen Mishne) | ILS 8,000 – 11,000 | ~$2,170 – $2,990 |
| Captain (Rav Seren) | ILS 15,000 – 20,000 | ~$4,080 – $5,440 |
| Lieutenant Colonel (Sgan Aluf) | ILS 25,000 – 35,000 | ~$6,800 – $9,520 |
| Brigadier General (Tat Aluf) | ILS 40,000 – 60,000 | ~$10,880 – $16,320 |
| Major General / Chief of Staff | ILS 60,000+ | ~$16,320+ |
Israel Defense Forces Benefits
- Housing subsidies and allowances for career officers
- Security incentives and combat bonuses
- Free medical care for service members
- Post-service benefits: mortgage subsidies and civilian reintegration packages for veterans
- Funded education, the IDF sponsors high-level academic degrees for career officers
- Elite unit bonuses, Sayeret Matkal, Shayetet 13, and other elite units attract premium pay
The IDF’s pay structure rewards long-term career service significantly. While conscript pay is modest, career officers and specialists in elite units earn very competitive packages, particularly when housing subsidies and post-service benefits are included.
10. Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF), Asia’s Most Disciplined and Well-Paid Military
Japan’s Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) — comprising the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, and Japan Air Self-Defense Force, is technically “defensive” in nature under Japan’s post-WWII pacifist constitution. However, the JSDF is a modern, technologically advanced force that offers highly competitive salaries to attract and retain skilled personnel.
Japan has been rapidly increasing its defense budget in recent years, pledging to double its defense spending to 2% of GDP by 2027. This trajectory means JSDF salaries will continue to grow in the near term.
Japan Self-Defense Forces Salary Structure (2026)
| Rank / Level | Monthly Pay (JPY) | Approx. USD/Month |
|---|---|---|
| 2-Ichi (Private, Entry Level) | ¥180,000 – ¥220,000 | ~$1,220 – $1,490 |
| Jietai Sochō (Master Sergeant) | ¥350,000 – ¥450,000 | ~$2,370 – $3,050 |
| Sho-i (2nd Lieutenant, Entry Officer) | ¥230,000 – ¥280,000 | ~$1,560 – $1,900 |
| Chu-sa (Lieutenant Colonel) | ¥500,000 – ¥650,000 | ~$3,390 – $4,410 |
| Sho-sho (Major General / Rear Admiral) | ¥700,000 – ¥900,000 | ~$4,750 – $6,100 |
| General / Admiral | ¥900,000+ | ~$6,100+ |
Japan Self-Defense Forces Benefits
- Housing support and military accommodation on base
- Medical care provided through JSDF medical facilities
- Pension plan and post-retirement job placement support
- Bonuses for long-term service (June and December bonus payments)
- Training with advanced defense technologies and interoperability with US forces
- Education and professional development funding
The JSDF is particularly attractive for technically minded individuals, its Air Self-Defense Force pilots, Maritime Self-Defense Force submarine crews, and cyber specialists earn substantially above the standard scales through vocation-specific allowances.
Summary Comparison Table: Top 10 Highest Paid Militaries in the World 2026
| Rank | Country | Entry-Level Monthly Pay (USD) | Senior Officer Monthly Pay (USD) | Defense Budget | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States | $2,407 (E-1) | $18,491+ (O-10) | $800+ billion | Largest budget; best all-round benefits package |
| 2 | Canada | CAD $4,337 (~$3,200) | CAD $14,000+ (~$10,300) | CAD $40+ billion | Highest entry-level enlisted pay worldwide |
| 3 | United Kingdom | £2,500 (~$3,000) | £16,000+ (~$19,200) | £60+ billion | X-Factor supplement; strong pension |
| 4 | Australia | AUD $55,000/yr (~$35,000) | AUD $200,000+/yr (~$130,000) | AUD $55+ billion | Tax-free deployment pay; superannuation |
| 5 | Singapore | SGD $3,070 (~$2,280) | SGD $18,000+ (~$13,400) | SGD $20+ billion | Highest pay per capita; SAVER retirement plan |
| 6 | Norway | NOK 229,000/yr (~$21,100) | NOK 1,000,000/yr (~$92,200) | ~$10+ billion | High living standards; ample leave and family benefits |
| 7 | Germany | €2,800 (~$3,060) | €15,000+ (~$16,400) | ~€90+ billion | Funded university degrees; job security |
| 8 | France | €2,600 (~$2,840) | €15,000+ (~$16,400) | ~€60+ billion | OPEX overseas deployment allowances |
| 9 | Israel | ILS 8,000 (~$2,170), Officers | ILS 60,000+ (~$16,320) | ~$47 billion | Highest defense spend per capita; elite unit bonuses |
| 10 | Japan | ¥180,000 (~$1,220) | ¥900,000+ (~$6,100) | ~$55+ billion (rising) | Strong bonuses; advanced tech training |
Conclusion
The highest paid militaries in the world in 2026 are concentrated in countries with the largest economies, the most advanced defense systems, and the strongest commitment to the welfare of their service members. From the United States at the top with its $800 billion defense budget, to Canada’s record-setting entry-level salaries, the UK’s X-Factor pay supplement, Australia’s tax-free deployment income, Singapore’s extraordinary per-capita military investment, and Norway’s enviable quality-of-life benefits, the common thread across all ten countries is that they view military personnel not just as soldiers, but as valuable professionals worthy of world-class compensation.
Key takeaways from this guide:
- The United States is the world’s highest paid military in 2026 with a defense budget exceeding $800 billion and a 3.8% pay raise.
- Canada leads the world in entry-level enlisted pay, a Private starts at CAD $4,337/month.
- Australia and Singapore are the Asia-Pacific leaders in military compensation.
- Norway offers the best work-life balance, leave benefits, and housing subsidies in Europe.
- Israel spends the most on defense per capita of any country, making IDF career officers among the best compensated in the Middle East.
- Total military compensation is always significantly higher than base pay, when housing, healthcare, food, and education benefits are included.
- All ten militaries offer a defined-benefit pension — a benefit that is increasingly rare in the civilian sector.
Whether you are a career-seeker, a student of global affairs, or someone planning to enlist, understanding the full compensation picture of these top-paying militaries can help you make an informed and rewarding career decision.