Kuwait's constitution forbids offensive war,
but the defence of the homeland and the preservation of
its independence and sovereignty is a sacred duty.
Based on this principle, the Ministry of Defence
has provided the armed forces with modern technology and
equipment of war fighting.
Military service in Kuwait is compulsory for all Kuwaiti male
citizens who have attained 18 years of age; they spend two years
in the army. The period is reduced to one year for university
graduates. The Ministry of Defence and the Army leadership use
the most modern systems such as computers and microfilms for preparing
and training Kuwaiti youth as ranked army officers.
Established in 1969, the Ministry of Defence has about 1,500
employees, excluding the forces. The Ministry works towards enhancing
the skills and abilities of land, air and naval forces by sending
them to military courses, both in Kuwait and abroad. Further,
the Ministry allows for acceptance of qualified women in various
specialities such as the engineering and military facilities,
moral guidance and public relations departments.
Kuwait's Army is an active member of the 'Peninsula Shield' force,
which is a joint force constituted by the GCC. It includes representative
units from all the Council members. Military officials exchange
visits and conduct joint maneuvers aiming at coordination and
integration among themselves.
