Astana (TDI): Kazakhstan made significant strides in modernizing its Armed Forces in 2024, equipping them with advanced weapons and military hardware.
The upgrades include air defense systems, aircraft, armored vehicles, and naval equipment, reflecting the country’s increasing focus on strengthening its defense capabilities.
The Ministry of Defense said that these enhancements align with Kazakhstan’s military modernization goals highlighted in the updated military doctrine approved in 2022.
Among the considerable additions to Kazakhstan’s military arsenal in 2024:
Air Defense Systems: Kazakhstan’s Armed Forces now operate Buk-M2E and Tor-M2K anti-aircraft missile systems (Russia), Rosa-RB radar stations (Belarus), and Nur radar stations, produced by Kazakhstan itself.
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Armored Vehicles: The Ground Forces received 53 Arlan armored wheeled vehicles produced by Kazakhstan Paramount Engineering and 45 Cobra II armored vehicles from Turkiye’s Otokar.
These vehicles enhance troop mobility and protection.
Military Transport Aircraft: In December last year, Kazakhstan acquired an A400M military transport aircraft from Spain.
The aircraft is able to transport heavy cargo, including military equipment.
Naval Vessel: The high-speed transport and landing boat Shapshan, produced in Mangistau region shipyards, was launched in Aktau.
Made for sea and riverine operations, it can transport up to 20 marines, has a range of 450 miles, a speed of 45 knots, and supports medical evacuation missions.
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The Ministry of Defense also prioritized modernizing its current arsenal, repairing and upgrading 85 pieces of ground and air military equipment in 2024. This includes 8 helicopters and 5 radar stations.
Kazakhstan’s Updated Military Doctrine
Kazakhstan’s President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev approved an updated military doctrine in October 2022. The doctrine emphasizes strengthening air defense, including radar and missile defense capabilities, developing special operations forces, enhancing domestic production of ammunition to reduce reliance on imports and establishing partnerships with foreign defense companies to get modern equipment and create joint ventures for advanced weapon production.
In the 2024 Global Firepower Index, Kazakhstan placed 58th out of 145 nations.
This ranking solidifies its position as having the strongest military in Central Asia.
