Defense
Defense
July 1, 2009
International Order of Battle Survey
This report provides a comprehensive overview of armed forces fielded by countries around the world as of early 2009. The purpose of this report is to become familiar with the more common weapons systems in each country's arsenal. This is by no means a complete listing of each country's TO&E -- that is something that must be further researched and will be provided on an as-needed basis, assuming that information is available.
Angola
Events have been unfolding so quickly in Angola that it is hard to track this country's forces with any certainty, but last count showed the Angolan Army was equipped with at least 300 T-55 tanks, 100 T-62s, 300 BMP-1s, 300 BTR80s, plus some 100 BRDM-2s. The Army also has a large number of AT3 Saggers, 100mm AT guns, 82mm mortars and D-30 (122mm) artillery pieces. The above numbers fluctuate depending on shipments from Russia, or combat results following skirmishes with the UNITA rebels.
Angola's navy is virtually nonexistent, but its air force, while small, is quite respectable, with 4 squadrons of aircraft. These include MiG-21, MiG-23, Su-22, Su-25 and over 40 Hind attack helicopters.
Lately, Angola has been repairing and deploying many of their old Russian air defense systems, indicating that they are preparing against an air attack from an outside power (since the rebels have no air force), most likely the U.S. Some 50 SA-2 Guideline and 20 SA-3 Goa high altitude air defense systems are now in place, as well as 25 SA-6 Gainful, 20 SA-9 Gaskin and 10SA-13 Gopher low altitude systems. These systems represent a very dangerous threat to even some of the most advanced aircraft, something that one might not expect from such an impoverished country as Angola.
The UNITA rebels have no organized army, and are armed with only small arms.
Argentina
Argentina maintains an army of 75,000 active troops, and is transitioning between being a motorized army and a fully mechanized one. Most of Argentina's kit is mid-20th century US design, including M4 tanks and several hundred M113 APCs. Artillery has not been acquired in very large numbers, leaving these troops less well supported compared to most armies. The most plentiful threat is their large number of Cobra and Mamba ATGMs (we are still doing research on these to find out what their closest equivalent weapon is to US and Russian models). Air defense includes the Tigercat, Blowpipe and 6 Roland. The army also fields a large number of helicopters. The Argentine navy boasts 3 submarines (2 Santa Cruz, 1 Salta) and 1 more which is undergoing a major refit, plus 6 destroyers (UK Type 42 and German MEKO 360), 7 frigates (4 Espora, 3 Drummond) and 10 patrol and coastal craft. A crew of naval air pilots is training with a squadron of Super Etenards aboard the Brazilian CV Minas Gerais. Argentina continues to maintain a strong force of 3500 Marines, which may indicate its longstanding intentions to make another try for the Falklands.
Australia
Australia's armed forces have always been minimal, considering the sheer size of the island and the amount of coastline it has to protect. The army has only 1 infantry division (motorized, but not mechanized) that's fully operational. Reserves would only account for another two divisions at most, and that would take several months to form up, much less deploy. A meager armored force of 71 Leopard tanks and less than 500 M113 APCs are the only tracked vehicles in Australia's inventory.
The Australian navy is about on par with the army, with a surface action force of only 3 destroyers and 7 frigates, though its ability to traverse great distances gives it at least some degree of power projection. Australia has 3 submarines, a Collins and two Oxleys, which are modified (UK) Oberons.
Its air force is also small but effective, with 2 squadrons of F-111s of various types, and 3 squadrons of F/A-18 Hornet As and Bs.
With such a small force, Australia's best defense is the sheer size of the continent which would require a large occupation force to hold any significant part of it, as well as the immense distance of its shores from potential enemies. Still, a concerted effort by China, Indonesia or any other respectable nation with amphibious capabilities could, if not intercepted by its US ally, pose a frightening threat to this country.
Bulgaria
The Bulgarian Army has increased five-fold over what it was ten years ago, with over 250,000 troops in all three branches. Of these, 80% are conscripts and most of these are reserve-level troops that have not had the kind of thorough boot training soldiers get in most armies. Equipment includes 1500 T-72 tanks, and 3000 T-55s and over 2600 MT-LB APCs. The preferred recon vehicle is the BRDM2 and air defense relies on SA-3s, SA-4s and SA-6s as well as shoulder-launched SA-16 SAMs.
Bulgaria's navy is small, with only 3 Smeli (similar to the Soviet Koni) class frigates and 20 corvettes (Poti, Tarantul and Pauk I classes) and 4 amphibouis Polnocny LSMs, but even this is considered a sizable force given that Bulgaria only controls a small portion of the Black Sea.
Bulgaria's air force is fairly substantial, consisting of 6 regiments of attack aircraft (3 Su-25, 2 MiG-23 and 1 MiG-21) and another 6 regiments of fighters, mainly MiG-23s and MiG-29s.
While not a tremendously threatening force, it is disproportionately large when compared to the country's even smaller size. Bulgaria seems to have more equipment in its armed forces than they have personnel to man them. This will most likely be rectified soon, since Bulgaria has reportedly stepped up its conscription quotas which should swell the army's ranks to nearly 300, 000 by the year 2010.
Chile
Having spent most of its time buiding up its business districts and communications centers, Chile has paid very little attention to its military in recent years -- until now. With an army of only 50, 000 troops and small airforce, it looks like it will have to invest heavily to make up for its shortfall compared to Argentina.
Chile's army is about half conscripts and is perhaps best described as "light mechanized." The main combat vehicle is the M113 APC, of which they have over 500, and about 100 M-4A3 tanks for support. Its army also features two light APC classes called the Cardoen/MOWAG Pirhana and the EE-11 Urutu. Chile has very few artillery assets (less than 100 105mm) and a small number of SAMs (Mistral, and Mygalle type).
The Chilean Navy is a bit more impressive, with 4 submarines (2 O'Brien [UK Oberon] and 2 Thompson [German T-209]) and 4 destroyers (2 Prat DDG [UK Norfolk] and 2 Blanco Encalada [UK Norfolk] DDH) and 4 frigates (Condell [UK Leander]). Chile also has 10 missile/torpedo boats and 4 amphibious craft (1 LSM, 1 LST). Also attached to the Chilean navy are several squadrons of combat aviation helos, and a force of 4000 Marines.
Chile's air force consists of just 2 squadrons of attack aircraft (1 Mirage 5BA, 1 F-5) and 1 squadron of fighters (Mirage 50) along with a number of Boeing 707s fitted out with AEW and ELINT capabilities.
China
With the largest army in the world, China officially supports 35 armies comprising 118 infantry divisions, 13 armored divisions, 17 artillery divisions and a total of some 2 million men. It was therefore no surprise to learn that China was one of the largest customers of the Russian Stockpile Sale of 2005, and has been continuing to modernize and expand even more.
The PLA's best tank is now the T80 (non-ATGM equipped), although T72s are far more plentiful, and their second-echelon and reserve forces will continue to use the T-62. All T-55s have been sold to other countries, mostly to Indonesia. By far the most common vehicle will be the WZ501 and WZ553 armored personnel carriers, which are similar to the Russian-built BMP-1 and MT-LB, respectively. Anti-tank weapons include the HJ-7, which is a Chinese copy of the AT3 Sagger, and the HJ-8, which bears a close resemblance to the Milan. China appears to be producing both of these weapons in large numbers.
Air defense relies primarily on the FT2000, which is a Chinese (and less reliable) copy of the Russian S-300, and the KS-1 (which was the air defense missile used by Malaysia in the US-Malaysia war two years ago.) China has also produced a massive number of SA-7b shoulder-launched systems to provide protection at lower altitudes.
China's navy has made several major upgrades since the turn of the millenium, having introduced two new classes of destroyers to its fleet -- the Luhai, which is an enlarged version of the Luhu class and which are known to carry either two Z-9 ASW helicopters or a single Ka-28, and the Sovremenny, a somewhat aging Russian ship which China has continued to purchase since the year 2000. The most common destroyer in the fleet, however, is the Luda II. All of these classes were designed with fleet defense in mind, a strong indication of China's blue-water aspirations. Where the navy is weakest is its lack of a respectable ASW platform, having only a few aging frigates in its active roster. This is where its submarine fleet must fill the void, which is made up of over 50 Romeo class diesel subs, plus a handful of Kilos (a very quiet Russian diesel boat) and Hans, the latter being a Chinese nuclear attack sub. The Chinese sub fleet's centerpiece is the XIA SSBN, a nuclear ballistic missile platform which, if hostilities break out between the US and China, must quickly be found and neutralized.
China has made great strides in developing its air force, having purchased a large number of Su30 MKs from Russia during the big 2005 sale. China has also increased production of the J11, which currently is the most advanced aircraft in all of Southeast Asia and as a dedicated air-to-air fighter it can even outmatch the F/A-18. A number of FC-1 prototypes have also been developed, which are supposedly as maneuverable as our own F-16. All of these aircraft are still in limited numbers, however, and must be supplemented by their larger force of older aircraft such as the more standard J8, or even older MiG-23.
Latest intelligence confirms that China is building more Dong Feng 21A ballistic missiles (also known as CSS-5). This is of particular concern to the Taiwan and other PacRim countries, as its range of 1200 nm allows China to strike virtually any target in the Western Pacific, even as far east as Guam. (You will recall this was the missile sold by China to Malaysia during the conflict over Brunei two years ago.) These missiles can be fitted with either conventional or nuclear warheads.
Croatia
As a quasi-independent republic of Yugoslavia, Croatia is a tough little nut when it comes to defense as every citizen is also a militia reservist. But these militia do not have any hardened experience in soldiering and unfortunately, neither do the NCOs who lead them into battle.
Croatian equipment includes T-55 tanks, BTR80s and BRDM2s, which is vastly inferior to the forces fielded by its 'parent' federation, Yugoslavia. Croatia does field a large number of ATGMs, however, including a full array of Sagger, Spigot and Saxhorn models, and a quite formidable air defense featuring SA-6, SA-7, SA-9, SA-10, SA-13, SA-14 and SA-16. Croatia's navy features 1 Velbit (similar to an Una) submarine for mine warfare work, along with a small squadron of corvettes and coastal combattants. It airforce consists of 1 squadron of MiG-21s.
Cuba
Cuba's military is made up of mostly conscripts, and given the moderate amount of dissention within the country, we are seeing signs of morale problems throughout its armed forces, especially in the lower ranks. The one thing that galvanizes them together is their resentment of US intervention in Latin America. Still, for a relatively poor Latin American country, their army remains over 90,000 strong. Equipment includes 1500 tanks, featuring mostly T-55s along with a few hundred T-62s. Their main APC is the BMP-1, though they also have over 600 BTR 80s. Artillery includes a full array of ex-Soviet guns, including MRLS. Cuba has a particularly large arsenal of 82mm mortars. AT weapons include the almost-antique AT1 Snapper and thet AT-3 Sagger. Air defense is fair to moderately strong, featuring Sa-6/-7/-8/-9/-13/-14 and -16. Cuba maintains 2 aging Foxtrot submarines and 1 Koni frigate, along with a handful of FAC/patrol craft. Their air force consists of 4 squadrons of fighters, including MiG-21F, MiG-23MF and a single small squadron of MiG29s. Also attached to Cuba's air force are 40 Mi-8 attack helos.
In countries such as Honduras, Somalia and Angola, Cuba does not supply any heavy forces, only a few platoons of elite troops trained in guerrilla tactics, which they teach to the host country's army. Other elements of Cuban advisors found abroad include mortar, SAM and ATGM personnel, again, mainly for training purposes.
Egypt
While Egypt is among the most moderate in terms of military temperment, its army is still among the most powerful in the Middle East. Its army of 350,000 men is made up of 4 armored divisions, 8 mech infantry divisions, and a number of other specialized and/or elite brigades, including 1 Republican Guard brigade and 1 brigade of paratroopers.
Egypt is in the process of changing over from Russian kit to US-made equipment, which is a reflection of its current political alignment. (Most of the Soviet equipment is now in store). Egypt's main battle tank is the T-62, but lately it has been transitioning to the US M1A1 Abrams. Its main APC is the BMP-1, but this too is being replaced by the M113. Towed artillery is generally of the Soviet designed 122mm variety, both conventional and MRL. ATGMs are Russian built as well, but may be replaced in the near future. Its air defense includes SA-9, and M-54 SP Chaparral.
Egypt's navy consists of 1 El Fateh destroyer (UK 'Z') and 8 Frigates (2 Perry, 2 Spanish Descubierta, 2 PRC Jianghu I and 2 US Knox), along with 45 patrol and coastal combatants.
Egypt's air force is somewhat more powerful in proportion to the rest of its army, with 7 attack squadrons (Alpha, PRC J-6, F-4, Mirage 5E2) and 21 fighter squadrons with a mix of F-16s, Mig-21s, Mirage 5D/E, J-7s and Mirage 2000C. Its air force also has 4 squadrons of attack helicopters and a number of UAVs.
Honduras
The Honduran military is really more of a military police force than a true army, with less than 15,000 personnel and only 1 company of light tanks (Scorpions). The enlisted force is almost entirely made up of conscripts. That is one reason why the contras are gaining power, as they are using guerrilla tactics to ambush troops that were perhaps mistakenly trained for more conventional warfare. The police use light armored vehicles, however, not much smaller than a BRDM2, to suppress guerrilla attacks in the jungle to good effect, but they do not have enough of these to go around and sooner or later a convoy of trucks or light vehicles are often destroyed by AK-carrying rebels. The "navy" is really just a squadron of patrol boats, the bulk of which consists of 33 motor craft used for riverine police work. The air force is a bit more modern, however, consisting of 2 squadrons of F-5Es, and a squadron of 8 Super Mystere B2s (though they are lacking seasoned crews for the latter aircraft). Honduras has no significant air defense.
India
India ranks among the top five or six military forces in the world, most of which has been equipped with Russian-made weapons. Its army numbers nearly a million men, which alone could conquer countries even without the latest weaponry. Altogether, India fields 4 armies,which include 4 rapid-reaction divisions (each 2 infantry, 1 mech brigade), 18 infantry divisions, 9 mountain divisions, 1 arty division and 15 independent brigades, plus 15 SAM regiments, 2 MRL regiments and 14 helo attack squadrons.
Army equipment consists of over 1500 T-72 and 700 T-55 main battle tanks, 2600 medium tanks (Vijayanta and Arjun and a couple of hundred light tanks (PT-76). India also has over 1000 BMP2s and 350 BMP-1s, over 4000 artillery pieces and its infantry carries a whole range of ATGM units, including Mialan, AT-3 Sagger, AT-4 Spigot and AT-5 Spandrel. Air defense is sizable, with SA-5 and SA-10 as its main models.
India's navy is equally impressive, with 1 Viraat (UK Hermes) carrier with an air wing of 2 squadrons of Sea Harriers, 6 destroyers (5 Rajput [Soviet Kashin] and 1 Delhi), 18 frigates (Godavari FFH, Nilgriri [UK Leander], Krishna [UK Leander], Kamorta [Soviet Petya]), and Khukri [ASu]), 17 submarines (8 Kilo, 4 German T-109/1500, 5 Foxtrot) along with 45 Patrol and coastal combatants, and 10 amphibious craft, including 2 LsTs, and 8 LSMs.
India's Air Force consists of 17 squadrons of attack a/c (MIG-21, MiG-23, Jaguar, and MiG-27) and 20 squadrons of fighter a/c (MiG-21s, 23s, 29s, and Mirage 2000H/TH, 8 SU-30 MK), along with a host of ECM, ELINT and AEW aircraft. India also has a squadron of maritime attack a/c (Jaguar).
Iran
The Iranian Army is over 350,000 strong, and are fair to moderately trained. Since the army has not fought a real war in some decades there isn't any of the battle hardened discipline or leadership from its lower non-com ranks that many other countries have. This has left its forces with strong material force only, but no 'heart,' or rather, a notable lack of resolve.
Iran fields over 4000 tanks (mostly T-72 [IQ]), about 2000 BMP1s and 2s, and a large recon force of BRDM2s. Its artillery corps fields most varieties of Russian made artillery, including MRL. Its ATGM is primarily the AT-3 Sagger. All infantry units are amply supplied with SA-7 SAMs. Medium and high altitude air defense is provided by 12 bns. of 150 I HAWK SAM, among others.
The Iranian Navy features 1 Babr (Sumner) destroyer, 3 Alvand (UK Vosper Mk5) frigates, 3 submarines (Kilo), 8 amphibious ships (7 LST, 1 LSM) as well as almost 50 Patrol and coastal combatants, and 2 brigades of Marines. In the event of war, the subs would have to be located promptly and either destroyed or contained, in order to keep the flow of oil coming through the Gulf for another day or two longer.
The Iranian Air Force consists of 9 squadrons of attack a/c (F-4, F-5, Su-24) and 7 squadrons of fighters (including F-7s, MiG-29s).
While most analysts believe that Iran's army is as strong or stronger than most of the other Arab states, the US could probably defeat Iran alone if it had too, but not without the commitment of at least two divisions of forces to our base in Saudi Arabia and at least two and maybe three carrier battlegroutps -- all of which would of course be extremely taxing to the US.
Iraq
As a military power, Iraq ranks as second among the SILI countries, not far behind Iran.
The Iraqi army has grown in size over the last five years, but is still not quite at its peak of ten years ago, before the Gulf War. Currenlty, the army is composed of 7 Corps, with 6 armored-mech divisions, 12 infantry divisions of Iraqi regulars which are made up of mostly conscripts (training is only fair, at best), plus 6 Republican Guard divisions which are moderately trained (though Hussein often refers to them as invincible, obviously forgetting a bit of history some ten years ago).
Equipment-wise, Iraq fields some 3000 tanks (mostly T-72 [IQ] though some of these are T-62s), about 1000 BMP1s and 2s, and a large recon force of BRDM2s. Its artillery corps fields most varieties of Russian made artillery, including MRL. Its ATGM is primarily the AT-3 Sagger. Air defense is comprised of 12 bns. of 150 I HAWK SAM sites, among others.
The Iraqi Navy is very small indeed, with only 4 Mussa Ben Nussair frigates and a handful of coastal patrol craft, and an oddball ship here and there with a helipad on board.
The Iraqi Air Force has grown to be a moderately menacing force, with roughly 10 squadrons of attack a/c, 12 squadrons of fighters and 2 squadrons of TU-22 bombers.
If the US were to take on Iraq alone, we estimate we would need at least two carrier battle groups in the region in addition to our forces in Saudi Arabia, plus a backup carrier group to protect the flow of oil and the US supply line.
Israel
Israel's army has now swelled to600,000, twice the size of any of the larger Arab countries. Most are reserves, not regulars, but at least 135,000 of these troops are first-rate and very well trained. This training has been quite apparent during its war with Syria, where evenly matched engagements nearly always turned out to be Israeli victories.
Israel uses two types of tanks, the Centurion and the M-60A3, having upgraded from their previous T-62 and Merkava models. Recon vehicles include ARMTA RBY and BRDM2s, while the preferred APC is the M113. Its preferred ATGM is the TOW system, Dragon and AT-3 Sagger. Troops commonly use the Stinger SAM for AD, while land based sites use the 45 Chaparral.
Israel has 3 submarines (1 Dolphin [German Type 212 variant] , 2 Gal [UK Vickers]), 3 Corvettes (Elat class) and 21 PFM missile craft. along with 1 LST for amphibious operations.
The Israeli Air Force is a powerful force to be reckoned with, and is expertly trained, with 16 squadrons of attack a/c (5 F-4E, 3 F-15, 7 F-16 and 1 with Kfir C7). Israel also has another 4 squarons ith 50A-4N, along with a fair number of ELINT, EW and AEW assets.
Japan
[Updated July 1, 2009]
Due to the backfiring of the Pacific Alliance (See World Threat Report), Japan is one of the few major powers in the world that is reducing its military spending. Once a 5-army military (at least organizationally) its ground forces have recently been reduced to just two army headquarters with less then 150,000 total personnel, including staff. It is predominantly infantry-based, with as many as 12 infantry divisions but only 1 armored division, an attack helicopter brigade, an airborne brigade and a few other specialized brigades of various types. As for vehicles and weapons, Japan's ground forces are equipped with mostly Western kit, or self-produced arms that are closely based on US or Australian designs.
Like the rest of its militlary, Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force is built for protection of its home waters and islands, not for power projection. There are no carriers in the Japanese navy nor any plans for building any, and only two naval infantry brigades -- enough for small scale operations but not enough to contribute to any major war effort. Its surface fleet consists of 10 destroyers [3 Kongo, 2 Murasame, 2 Hatakaze, and 3 Tachikaze] and as many as 48 frigates, half of which are FFH types of various classes [including 12 Hatsuyuki and 8 Asagiri] and the other half FF types [including 9 Chikugo and 6 Abukuma]. Japan also has 10 active submarines [7 Harushio and 9 Yuushio classes].
Japan's air force is also quite modest with only 4 squadrons of attack aircraft [1 sqnd. of A-4s, 1 sqdn. of F-16A and Bs, and 2 sqdns. of various sub-types of Hawk fighters] and 1 dedicated squadron to home defense consisting of F-5s.
Japan's main assets is not its military units, but its bases, having a large number of them built through the entire Japanese islands. This will help prevent North Korea or China from launching of any large-scale pre-emptive strike designed to knock out Japan or the US all in one massive blow early on.
Libya
Libya's army continues to expand at a rapid pace. Its leader, the archly anti-Semite Col. Khaki Khadama, is a constant obstacle to the trend toward peace with Israel and continually threatens the balance of power in African, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. Libya bought big during the Russian "fire sale" in 2005, procuring over 300 T-74 (Iq) and 400 T-62 tanks. Libya also has retained its already sizeable force of over 500 T-55 medium tanks, as well. Other standard Russian-built equipment includes 300 BRDM-2s, over 1000 BMP-1s, and 100 BTR80s, as well as 122mm and 152mm artillery and a large number of 122mm MRL systems. Anti-tank weapons include the long-range (but not always reliable) AT-3 Sagger, Milans, and AT-4 Spigots.
The Libyan navy consists of three frigates -- (2 Al hani and 1 Dat Assawari [UK Vosper Mk 7]), plus some 30 corvettes and missile craft and 8 mine countermeasuress platforms, several of which have mine-laying capability as well. Libya also possesses four "Al Badr" (Soviet Foxtrot) submarines. These subs are under repair, however, and it appears that only one of them is operational at this time. Libya also has five amphibious ships on its active roster.
The Libyan air force consists of 12 Tu-22 Backfiie squadron, 40 MiG-23BN, 15 MiG-23U, 30 Mirage 5D/DE, 14 Mirage 5DD, 14 Mirage F-1AD, 6 Su-24, 45 Su-20, 30 J-1 Jatreb. In addition, Libya is known to play host to Russian air force elements and is being assisted by Russian military advisors. Best AAMs that we know of are the R-530 and R-550 Magic. Libya also has a substantial number of Mi-25 and Mi-35 attack helicopters with AT-2 Swatter ASMs as well as Mi-8/17 HIP and Mi-2 HOPLITE.
Malaysia
Malaysia's armed forces feature the same equipment as before during the US-Malaysian war, but has been drastically reduced as per provisions of the peace treaty. For complete information on Malaysia's weapons and equipment, see Malaysia at the TacOps Intel page.
North Korea
Pakistan
Pakistan continues its military expansion unabated, with almost million men, 2500 tanks (mostly M48 A5s) and 850 M113 APCs. Their main AT weapon is the the TOW, and most of their artillery consists of towed 155mm and 105mm pieces. Pakistan also has a large inventory of recoiless rifles (similar in firepower to the SPG9). Pakistan's navy features 9 submarines (Hashmat, Hangor, and MG110), 6 Alamgir (US Gearing) destroyers, 6 Tariq (US Amazon) and 2 Shamsher (UK Leander) frigates and some 15 to 20 patrol and coastal combatants which include Huangfeng and Hegu missile craft, Larkana offshore patrol boats and Quetta and Rajshahai inshore patrol boats.
Philippines
The Philippines has spent less on its armed forces per capita than almost any major country in the world and is only now beginning to modernize its defenses. This modernization has been spurred on by the relentless growth of Indonesia's military, and by the increasing tensions over the Spratly islands in the South China Sea. (The Philippines have formally laid claims to several of the islands but does not have the military power to back those claims up.)
The Philippine army has 8 infantry divisions, more than Malaysia did at the start of the Brunei conflict in 2008, but they are ill-equipped and poorly trained, being little more than a para-military police force. These forces are fine for providing internal security (which is necessary given the Philippines' turbulent political upheavals) but are not considered combat worthy in conventional warfare. Also, most of these troops are not mechanized or even motorized, and are supported by fewer than 50 light, British-designed Scorpion tanks.
The Philippine airforce is also weak and not very modern, with a single squadron of F-5s for air defense and a squadron of BN-2A Defenders for use in the anti-shipping role.
Still, the Philippines has made several efficient expenditures recently, such as a large flotilla of cheap amphibious transports and a substantial sized marine force (some 10 battalions) which has already been deployed to many of its remote, outer islands as observation posts and for intelligence-gathering. Its navy also has some 50 or 60 patrol boats for both offshore and inshore security. Its navy only has 1 Frigate and no destroyers or submarines.
No doubt the Philippines' lack of spending is a result of their joining the ill-fated Pacific Alliance (see Treaties and Alliances section), which gave a false sense of security to the member nations. Whatever the reason, the Philippines will do well just to defend its archipelago, much less enforce claims on other nations.
Poland
While Poland's air force is becoming antiquated and its navy is all but non-existent, its army is becoming larger every year and better-trained as well. Its forces have been broken up into four military districts -- each receiving three divisions of mechanized infantry. The district near the city of Krakow contains a number of specialized brigades including air cavalry, air assault, mechanized and mountain infantry. It is outfitted with weapons meant for defense, not attack, especially in the area of air defense.
Poland's army is still using Soviet-era equipment including over 1600 T72 and T55 tanks. The Polish Army also has over 500 BMP-2 APCs, plus a fairly substantial artillery corps consisting of about 160 152mm pieces and 300 of the 122mm variety. All units are bristling with air defense guns to help stave off close air attacks, including ZUs for stationary installations and ZSU-23s for troop formations. The army is beginning to change over to NATO equipment, but at this point only a few front line units have done so.
Similar to the army, the Polish Air Force is based on air defense, not attack. It consists of 7 regiments of MiG-21s and MiG-23s, including 2 squadrons of MiG-29s. By contrast it only has 4 regiments of attack aircraft, made up of mostly Su-22s.
High and medium altitude air defense is also high on Poland's list of priorities, with about 200 SAM systems, including SA-2, 3, 4 and 5.
Russian Union
Through the massive sale of all its pre-1980s weapons in 2005, the Russian Union has been able to finance a long-needed overhaul of its armed forces. Rather than develop newer, more advanced technologies, however, most of the reconstruction effort has been spent on repairing equipment that was previously mothballed and on production of already-existing weapon systems. Today, Russia is now able to field most of the weapons projects that it had initiated in the mid-90's. While Russia's military is still not able to match the US in terms of global power projection, their forces and equipment appear to be fully operational and respectably trained, with certain units having gained valuable combat experience during their recent campaigns against rebel separatists in Chechya and the Ukraine.
Russian ground forces today are basically composed of the same Category A forces of the late 80s, with a slightly stronger emphasis on air defense. The new standard in APCs is the BMP3, a more lethal upgrade to the previously dominant BMP2. The most common ATGM is the AT7 Saxhorn, which trades weight for range, as compared to the AT3 and 4 (though the AT3 and AT4 are still fielded, to a lesser degree). The only mishap in Russia's rebuilding program was the T-90 tank, which exhibited a faulty engine problem and was recalled, then eventually scrapped. Production remains high for the T-80 series, however. Artillery continues to play a major role in its military, as seen in the Grozny affair. Expect large formations of MRLS as well as conventional artillery to accompany any deployments at the brigade-level or larger.
Air defense is perhaps an even more critical component to Russian doctrine than it has been previously, which is perhaps a reaction to modern US AirLand Battle doctrine. S-300 surface to air missile systems are have been produced in large numbers, and a great many SA-11 systems have been brought out of mothballs as well. These will provide a strong, medium to high-altitude umbrella, while the lower altitudes will be handled by SA-15s, SA-9 Geckos (BRDM-mounted SAMs) and shoulder-launched, SA-16s.
Russia's air force is once again making a comeback, with scores of MiG-29 Fulcrum (A) and Su-35 Super Flankers being deployed to bases around the country. Aviation, in fact, is the one area where Russia has made considerable strides over its 1980s and 90s technology, with the introduction of two new advanced aircraft designs. The new MiG-29 Fulcrum M class is reportedly in full production, and is rumored to outperform both the US F-16 Falcon and F/A-18 Hornet in terms of speed and maneuverability. Another aircraft, quite possibly an upgrade to the "Super Flanker," appears to be in development, though little is known about its capabilities as this project has been shrouded in secrecy.
Russia's navy, which for years had been rusting away in their slips due to lack of funds, is now beginning to be overhauled as well , with all fleets being able to put together enough ships to make up at least one respectable task force. And Russia's submarine fleet is considered to be among their most dangerous threats. Still, this is probably only half the number of ships that they had in their heyday, and will probably not be able to go toe to toe with a full deployment of combined US and NATO fleets. Training exercises have been on the rise as well, but mostly only in shallow waters close to home ports. This should be sufficient enough to keep up their basic level of seamanship and alertness, but it is expected that their newly conscripted crews will be somewhat deficient in blue water ASW and anti-ship operations.
Somali Republic
Following the 1991 revolution, much of Somalia's equipment had fallen into disrepair. A recent coup, however, conducted with Russian equipment and Cuban advice, has led to the creation of a rebel nation led by warlord brigands. Since that time, the 'Republic of Somaliland' has received a glut of new Russian platforms as well as technical support to repair their old arsenal. This equipment includes over 400 T-55 medium tanks, 2000 BRDM-class recce vehicles and 3500 BTR-80s. A few AT7 anti-tank weapons have been making their way into the country, but the most prevalent anti-tank weapon by far is the RPG16, and almost as many RPG-22s. The Somali army also has a large number of light and medium crewed mortars, but do not as yet have any artillery.
Somalia's air force, nearly non-existent only 10 years ago, has been built up a great deal, with the acquisition of about 20 Su-22 Fitter and another 20 MiG-21 Fishbed aircraft. Somali pilots are only now being cleared to fly them, and it will be some time before they can be called proficient, at least by US standards.
Air defense is almost entirely made up of low-altitude, shoulder-launched weapons such as the SA-7, though a large number of ZSU-23-4AAAs have been shipped to Somalia in recent months and should be operational soon.
The Somali navy consists of a flotilla of small police boats used for patrolling its extensive coast, but other than that it is non-existent.
The most worrisome military threat in Somalia, however, is their civilian population, which can often be swayed by the warlords into mob frenzy, often with terrifying effectiveness that even our own special forces units are not always equipped to handle. If a conflict does arise in the Somali Republic, US commanders would be well advised to stay away from densely urban areas as much as possible unless well-supported by the highest tech weaponry and surveillance assets. Even then, as we have learned once before, this may not be enough to accomplish our mission.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka has a surprisingly large army for a country its size, some 130,000 troops in all, including reservists. It maintains very little in the way of motorized or mechanized equipment, however, and still must rely on getting to the battle on foot. Sri Lanka's navy has 9 amphibious ships for expeditionary operations, and its 38 coastal patrol ships will attempt to restrain smuggling to and from the island in support of the Tamil Tigers. The Sri Lanka air force consists of 22 combat aircraft, including mostly obsolete aircraft such as the F-5, Hind helos. In its latest attempt to gain intel on the disposition of Tamil forces, the Sri Lanka military is beginning to experiment with UAVs.
The Liberation forces of Tamil (LTTE), also known as the Tamil Tigers, consists of 6000 guerrillas, whose skills in ambush, terrorism and jungle survival are renowned the world over. The Tamil group maintains several terrorist camps, one of which is located in the middle of a dense patch of jungle, making surveillance somewhat difficult.
Syria
By mutual agreement, Jordan and Lebanon's forces are now in command of the more experienced leadership of Syria's generals, increasing Syria's military strength to 350,000. (Presumably, these added forces are intended to be used only against Israel, however, not against another Arab nation.) This brings the total Syrian army's order of battle up to 4 Corps commands, with 6 armored divisions (each with 3 armored and 1 mech brigade, plus 1 artillery regiment), 3 mech divisions (each with 2 armored, 2 mech, 1 arty regt), 1 Republican Guard division (3/1/1), 1 SF division, and several other independent infantry brigades. Syria also has 3 SSM brigades, 1 with FROG, 1 with Scud and 1 with SS-21 missiles. Air defense includes SA-7, SA-9 and SA-13 missiles.
Equipment-wise, Syria uses both T-62 and T-72 tank, about 1000 of each. About 1000 of its now archaic T-55s have been left in static positions along Israel's border, unmaintained except for their turrets and gunnery. Recce vehicles are mainly BRDM2s, and its APCs have recently been upgraded to the BTR80.
Syria's navy includes 3 ex-Romano submarines, 2 Abu Dhabi frigates (Dutch Kortenaer) and 2 Petya II ASW frigates, as well as 27 missile and patrol craft. Naval aviation consists of 20 ASW Mi-14 and 4 Ka-28.
Its air force is made up of 9 attack squadrons (Su-22, Su-24, MiG-23) and 17 fighter squadrons (MiG-21, MiG23, MiG-25, MiG-29) 50 attack helos (Mi-25) and several AEW support aircraft.
Taiwan
[Updated July 1, 2009]
Taiwan's entire military is defensive in nature and would be very costly to breach, even for China -- after all, the ROC has had 60 years to make preparations. Besides the scores of fortifications, gun emplacements, hidden bunkers and other in-ground preparations along its shore, there are no doubt many types of mines to deal with, both marine and land, some possibly remote-controlled. (We do not have specifics on ROC defenses, this is merely conjecture). In any case, an army of 300,000 troops, dug in and waiting for a fight, would take far more forces than China's amphibious fleet can carry, unless it were to employ hundreds of commercial shipping units, possibly even a few hundred fishing boats, to make up for the shortfall.
Once a port of some kind was seized, however, Taiwan could be in trouble, as its ground forces are not large enough to overcome the sheeer numbers of China's forces, assuming they had a steady stream of amphibious transport. Taiwan's M-113s and V-150 Commando APCs have been replaced with the more capable Bison, though they are still clinging to the somewhat antiquated M-60A3 main battle tank (MBT). Their light tanks have been replaced by M8 AGS tanks. One thing in Taiwan's favor is its large number of ATGMs, about a 1000 TOW systems, which could prove devastating if deployed in ambush position well before the fighting. Taiwan's air defense is also quite strong, which includes 6 SAM battalions -- 2 with Nike Hercules, 4 with I HAWK.
Taiwan's total ground forces consist of 3 armies -- each made up of 2 infantry divisions, 2 mech infantry brigades and 2 armored brigades. Taiwan also has two divisions of Marines and two independent airborne brigades. Most of these forces are in reserve status with only 10-20% on duty during peacetime but could be called up to full combat readiness within 30-60 days.
Taiwan's chief defense, however, will rest with its navy. Its 4 submarines [2 Hai Lung, 2 Hai Shih], togethet with its surface fleet of 36 medium combat vessels, including 7 DDG (US Gearing) and 11 DD (6 Fu Yang [Gearing], Po Yang [US Sumner] and Kun Yang [US Fletcher]) could easily intercept a large Chinese flotilla in the Strait well before it reached Taiwan (assuming it recieved early enough intelligence on the attack). Taiwan also has over 100 corvettes, missile craft and patrol craft to protect its shores. Taiwan even has 23 amphibious ships which would help it remobilize in the event of China establishing a beachhead inland. Taiwan also has an active force of 2 divisions of Marines, which have bought up surplus AAV7s from the US, and have replaced their 105mm light artillery to 120mm mortars.
Taiwan's air force, meanwhile, is made up of 10 squadrons of F-16C and F-16D aircraft, 5 squadrons of aging but still capable F-5s (7-B, 214-E, 53-F) and another 5 squadrons of Mirage 2000-5s which entered service at the end of the millenium. These 20 squadrons, deployed efficiently, could stave off as many as twice the number of Chinese fighters or attack aircraft. All in all, a very formidable force.
Vietnam
[Updated July 1, 2009]
Vietnam's army is almost as active and combat-ready as it was during the war against the U.S., as tensions with China increase. Most of their forces, therefore, or at or very close to the border in defensive positions. Forces include about 50 T-62 and 300 T-55 tanks, which of course is no match for a strong onrush of China's main army. It also features BTR-80s, self-propelled 152mm artillery, and towed 122mm and 152mm artillery. The AT weapon of choice is the AT3, and the 100mm assault gun. Its navy features 7 frigates of the Barnegat (US Cutter) Petya II and Petya III. While its blue water navy is decidedly weak, Vietnam has a large inland force of over 50 patrol and coastal craft, as well as 2 Mine countermeasures ships, and 7 amphibious ships.
Vietnam's air defense, once thought to contain only a handful of antiquated SA-2, 3 and 6 systems, is actually much more formidable opponent to air strikes than we thought. Through expanding trade and a freer exchange of business information these last few years, the DIA and Army Special Forces operatives have uncovered the existence of dozens of underground SAM sites, most of which are built in bomb-proofed, hardened shelters. This would likely make all but the most extreme, high-altitude bombing runs very costly indeed.
Yugoslavia
Yugoslavia's army fields some 800 T-55 tanks, though a great many of these have fallen into disrepair during the last decade. Recce vehicles are BRDM2. APCs include the BTR80 and a recent shipment of 80 BTR90s. AT weapons consist of AT-3 and AT-4 ATGMs. Yugoslavia is big on artillery, with hundreds of tubes of medium and heavy caliber guns, as well as over 100 122mm MRL systems. Its navy maintains (just barely) 2 Sava SS and 2 Heroj SS class submarines, 4 frigates (2 Kotor, 2 Split) and as many as 35 patrol and coastal craft, 16 mine warfare vessels, 10 amphibious landing vessels and a regiment of about 1000 Marines. Its air force has 4 squadrons of Orao 2 attack aircraft, 4 squadrons of MiG-21 fighters and 1 squadron of Mig-29s. The air force also has some 40 to 50 attack helos attached to its command. Air defense consists of SA-6, SA-7/-9/-13/-14/ and -16.
END REPORT.