ADefenceIndependent states
Armed Forces of Kazakhstan
Founded on 7 May 1992. 7 May is celebrated as Defender of the Fatherland Day.
The Armed Forces of Kazakhstan were created by decree on 7 May 1992 from Soviet army units remaining in the country, and the date is a public holiday every year.
They consist of the Ground Forces, Air Defence Forces and Naval Forces, plus air assault, special forces, rocket-artillery and territorial troops. The navy is based at Aktau on the Caspian.
Kazakhstan voluntarily gave up its Soviet nuclear weapons. Kazakh troops serve in UN peacekeeping missions.
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Updated: October 2, 2026