The defense technology market (DefTech) presents a complex picture of income distribution. According to the latest DOU study, published by RBK-Ukraine, the median salary in this sector over the last six months has stabilized at $2,500. At the same time, an interesting dynamic is observed within the industry: developer incomes have risen by $350, reaching $3,200.
In a global comparison with the civilian sector, DefTech currently lags behind. The overall median income in defense technologies is $200 lower than in regular IT ($2,500 vs. $2,700). Developer salaries in the "defense" sector also trail general industry indicators by 9% — $3,200 vs. $3,500.
Specializations where Defense outperforms the market
Despite the overall lag, in a number of narrow specializations, defense technologies significantly outpace the civilian market. The leader in the salary gap is the DevOps & SRE sphere, where specialists earn $1,400 more than their colleagues in IT.
Furthermore, project manager salaries in both sectors have equalized at $2,500. Among all defense technology directions, these roles have the highest median incomes.
Where incomes are below average
At the same time, specialized DefTech positions demonstrate lower figures. Design engineers receive an average of $2,550, while UAV engineers earn $1,500. The lowest income level was recorded in the HR & Recruiting category — only $1,590.
The impact of qualification level on income
The experience factor plays a decisive role in salary distribution. Specialists at Lead+, Senior, and Manager levels earn $200–$500 more in civilian IT than in DefTech. The situation changes radically at the start of a career: juniors and entry-level specialists (Intern/Junior) earn more specifically in the defense sector — $1,150 vs. $900 in IT. For Middle-level developers, salaries in both industries have equalized at $2,500.
Working conditions in DefTech
The industry differs significantly in working conditions as well. The hybrid format remains dominant: 47% of specialists work in a mixed mode. 33% of employees work exclusively from the office, and only 20% have the opportunity to work fully remotely.
