Military & Security

Military - note

The main duty of the Kyrgyz military is to safeguard the nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also taking on certain internal security roles. Additionally, the military engages in peacekeeping operations under the auspices of the UN and the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO), along with participating in both bilateral and multinational training exercises. Key areas of concern involve border security and counterterrorism efforts. Russia is the military's primary security ally, offering training and material support, and maintaining a presence in the nation, which includes an airbase. The military also collaborates with neighboring countries like India, primarily focusing on counterterrorism initiatives.

Kyrgyzstan became a member of the CSTO in 1994 and has provided troops to the organization's rapid reaction force. The country initiated its relationship with NATO in 1992 and became part of NATO's Partnership for Peace program in 1994 (2025).

Military expenditures

Military and security forces

The Armed Forces of the Kyrgyz Republic consist of: Land Forces (Kyrgyz Army), Air Defense Forces (Kyrgyz Air Force), and the National Guard of the Armed Forces of the Kyrgyz Republic.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs oversees the Internal Security Service.

The State Committee for National Security is responsible for the Border Guard Service (2025).

Military service age and obligation

Men aged 18-27 are subject to compulsory or voluntary service in the Armed Forces or Interior Ministry, with a service commitment of 12 months (9 months for those who have graduated from university). There is an option to serve for three years in the call-up mobilization reserve for a fee. Women may volunteer for service beginning at age 19, while military cadets can be aged 16-17 but are not permitted to engage in military operations (2025).

Military equipment inventories and acquisitions

The inventory of the Kyrgyz military consists predominantly of arms and equipment from Russian and Soviet origins. In recent years, there have been minor acquisitions of weaponry from alternative suppliers, such as Turkey, which has provided unmanned aerial vehicles and drones (2025).

Military and security service personnel strengths

Information available is limited; it is estimated that there are between 10,000 and 15,000 active personnel in the Armed Forces, including the National Guard (2025).