Hungary’s latest Defence Centre, inaugurated on Thursday in Nyíregyháza, is part of a broader effort to showcase the military in a more accessible and immersive way. Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky said the idea emerged a few years ago: to expand beyond traditional museum formats and create a centre that speaks directly to both young and old through experiences that can be enjoyed on the spot.
He noted that Budapest’s Bálna was the first venue to fulfil this mission, serving as both an events space and an interactive military showcase. Alongside historical displays, the building features a go-kart track, airsoft shooting, and a parachute jump simulator, making it highly attractive to families, schools and visitors.
This experiential model has now been brought to Nyíregyháza, a city with a strong military heritage. The newly developed facility, located in the city centre, also functions as a revamped recruitment hub. The minister highlighted that recruitment results in Szabolcs–Szatmár–Bereg County have been strong, with the ‘I Love–I Protect’ campaign—focused on territorial reserve forces—achieving some of its best numbers in the city and the region.
Lieutenant General Zoltán Mihócza, Deputy Commander for Territorial Defence, said the new centre will serve as a meeting point between the armed forces and the civilian community. Visitors will be able to learn how Hungarian soldiers serve and what equipment they use, while also trying out simulation tools, a VR headset and an escape room.
‘There must be trust between society and the Hungarian Defence Forces, which is why we need to step outside the barracks and show who we are,’ the general said.
Mayor Ferenc Kovács underlined that the institution will serve the community, the military, national defence and future generations, while continuing military traditions with a modern, innovative approach.
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