Uzbekistan Approves Digital Transformation of Armed Forces

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan, who serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, has approved a package of measures aimed at digitally transforming the military and further developing the system for training defense personnel. The decisions followed a presentation on the modernization of the defense sector and the introduction of advanced management technologies.

During the session, the head of state was briefed on ongoing reforms designed to adapt the armed forces to modern forms of warfare, where unmanned aerial vehicles, robotic systems, and electronic warfare capabilities are increasingly used. Uzbekistan has already established specialized units for drone operations and counter-drone capabilities, alongside training programs for UAV operators, engineers, and robotics specialists.

A separate part of the presentation focused on reforms in military education launched in 2025. As part of these changes, all military higher education institutions in the country were granted institute status, a unified management system was created, and the University of Military Security and Defense of the Republic of Uzbekistan was established. Curricula and qualification requirements are being updated based on analysis of modern combat operations and international experience.

The new training model includes strengthened instruction in foreign languages, information technologies, and artificial intelligence at the undergraduate level. For command-and-staff officers, a three-level training system is being introduced based on international practices and analysis of contemporary conflicts. Training for non-commissioned officers is also being expanded, including distance learning programs in civilian specialties, along with a unified certification system for aviation and unmanned systems specialists.

Significant attention was given to military digitalization and cybersecurity. According to the presentation, the Ministry of Defense has modernized its communications infrastructure, introduced secure communication channels, and expanded information and communication technologies. Military specialists have developed around 50 different information systems for various purposes.

One of the key projects is the electronic system “Conscription,” integrated with 19 ministries and agencies. As a result, 39 types of government certificates have been digitized, and conscription procedures have been conducted fully electronically for the first time. In military healthcare, a unified information system and telemedicine solutions have been implemented, integrated with the Ministry of Health platform.

To counter modern cyber threats, a Cybersecurity Monitoring Center has been established. Additional measures include expanding automated command-and-control systems, developing robotic and autonomous platforms, and strengthening research and development activities.

Within the structure of the Ministry of Defense, plans include the creation of a Main Directorate for Digital Technologies, a Department of Artificial Intelligence, and a Cybersecurity Laboratory. A Satellite Communications Center is also planned to ensure stable nationwide communications coverage.

A new management architecture is being introduced as well. The Ministry of Defense will establish the position of Deputy Minister for Digitalization, while military districts will have deputy commanders responsible for digital technologies, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.

Following the presentation, President Mirziyoyev approved the proposals and signed a series of directives aimed at deepening the digital transformation of the armed forces, expanding the use of artificial intelligence, and further developing military training systems. He also set a task to develop national artificial intelligence models for defense applications.