Uzbekistan focuses on army modernisation to face modern warfare, says president PHOTO / UPDATED

Uzbekistan prioritises technological modernisation of its army to meet the challenges of contemporary warfare, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev said. 

Speaking at an expanded Security Council meeting on January 13, he emphasised the need to strengthen national defence and ensure the country’s security amid regional conflicts and rising global military tensions, Caliber.Az reports via the official website of the Uzbek president.

The president highlighted substantial progress in strengthening the country’s defence capabilities. The national army is being equipped with advanced weapons and technology, while the combat readiness and morale of troops are steadily improving. New tactical approaches have been introduced, the frequency and intensity of military exercises have increased by 1.5 times, and specialised drone units and training centres have been established.

A complete overhaul of the military education system has been implemented, including the establishment of the University of Military Security and Defence, staffed with highly qualified professors and instructors. Advanced digital learning technologies, including AI-based systems, have been integrated into training programs, raising the quality of military education to a new level.

Discussing conscription reforms, the president explained: "Young servicemen should gain at least one professional skill by the end of their service." He outlined programs where recruits complete 3–6-month vocational training, take university entrance exams during service, and receive certification upon passing qualification exams. Mirziyoyev also introduced initiatives such as “One Million Programmers” and “Five Million AI Leaders” to train thousands of conscripts annually.

Mirziyoyev emphasised the importance of moral and intellectual development, announcing that all military units will receive one million books this year, and reading competitions will be held at multiple levels, with winners receiving reductions in service duration. Traditional sports competitions will continue, alongside modern disciplines such as e-sports, drones, and robotics.

The president also outlined plans to advance the defence industry, integrate digital technologies and AI into military enterprises, and strengthen cybersecurity and the resilience of national digital infrastructure. Social support measures were expanded, including doubling longevity bonuses for officers, a 10% pay increase for contract servicemen, and substantial salary increases for civilian defence staff. Housing programs and pensions for long-serving personnel will also be improved.

Finally, the president reaffirmed Uzbekistan’s commitment to a non-aligned, multilateral diplomatic approach, emphasising that the new Defence Doctrine will guide the army’s technological and strategic modernisation while maintaining national stability.

During the meeting, reports and proposals from the Minister of Defence, regional military commanders, and other responsible officials were presented.

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An expanded meeting of Uzbekistan’s Security Council is scheduled to take place on January 13 under the chairmanship of President Shavkat Mirziyoyev.

President Mirziyoyev will also visit facilities operated by the Ministry of Defence as part of the day’s agenda, Caliber.Az reports per Uzbek media. 

By Sabina Mammadli