Hungarian Defence Minister investigates luxury carriage purchase

Hungarian Defence Minister Romulusz Ruszin-Szendi is investigating a controversial military purchase involving an exclusive, four-horse Esterházy-style carriage. The item was originally intended as a ceremonial gift for the 2023 coronation of King Charles III, but the plan was abandoned after the British royal family requested that guests bring only symbolic gifts.

Despite the gift never leaving Hungary, the carriage was officially added to the Hungarian Defence Forces' inventory. Public procurement data from 2023 shows the carriage cost 10.25 million HUF (approximately 13 million HUF including tax), with an additional 5 million HUF spent on harnesses and ceremonial uniforms.

The minister has raised questions regarding the necessity of the purchase, asking what military purpose the carriage serves and how much it has ultimately cost taxpayers. He criticized the previous defense leadership's priorities, suggesting that funds should have been directed toward national defense rather than ceremonial items.