Military & Security

Military - note

The Belarusian military is tasked with safeguarding national territory; Russia serves as its primary security ally, and the military engages in collaborative training exercises alongside Russian forces. In 2022, Belarus permitted the Russian military to conduct operations from its territory as part of the invasion of Ukraine. Furthermore, in 2023, Belarus consented to allow Russia to station nuclear weapons within its borders.

Since 1994, Belarus has been a participant in the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO) and has contributed an airborne brigade to the CSTO's rapid reaction force. The military frequently conducts training exercises with other CSTO member states (2025).

Military expenditures

Military and security forces

Belarus Armed Forces: Consists of Army, Air and Air Defense Force, Special Operations Force, Special Troops, and Territorial Defense Forces.

Ministry of Interior: Encompasses State Border Troops, Militia, and Internal Troops (2025).

Military service age and obligation

Individuals aged 18-27 are required to serve in military or alternative service; the duration of conscript service is between 12 to 18 months, contingent on educational qualifications, while alternative service lasts 24 to 36 months. Those who are 17 years old may enroll as cadets in military higher education institutions, where they are recognized as military personnel (2025).

Military equipment inventories and acquisitions

The military's arsenal primarily consists of equipment of Russian and Soviet origin; Belarus's defense sector produces some military equipment, predominantly modernized Soviet designs, which includes vehicles, guided munitions, and electronic warfare systems (2025).

Military and security service personnel strengths

There are approximately 50,000 to 60,000 active-duty military personnel (2025).