Military of Bhutan

The branches of the armed forces of Bhutan are the Royal Bhutan Army, Royal Bodyguards, Militia, and Royal Bhutan Police. Being a landlocked country, Bhutan does not have a navy. Additionally, Bhutan does not have an air force. India is responsible for military training, arms supplies and the air defense of Bhutan.

Military statistics

Military manpower – military age: 18 years of age

Military manpower – availability:
males age 15–50: 500,000 (2010 est.)

Military manpower – fit for military service:
males age 15–50: 250,000 (2010 est.)

Military manpower – reaching military age annually:
males: 20,000 (2010 est.)

Military expenditures – dollar figure: $NA

Military expenditures – percent of GDP: 2%

Air Support

The Royal Bhutan Army relies on the Eastern Air Command of the Indian Air Force for air assistance. In recent years India has helped Bhutan start to develop its military in all areas through military donations and training. Indian Air Force helicopters evacuated RBA casualties to India for treatment during Operation All Clear in 2003.

Gross National Happiness

Members of the RBG/RBA/RBP had a self reported happiness of 6.50/10. They had the second highest percentage of people who were very satisfied with their livelihood (30%) and had 0% of people dissatisfied with their livelihood. 85%, the highest of all the occupations, felt as though they were never selfish. They also had the highest self rated health status of any occupation.

References and links

This article was adapted from the CIA World Factbook 2010.