The constitution of Paraguay designates the president as commander in chief of the armed forces. Military service is compulsory, and all 18-year-old males—and 17-year-olds in the year of their 18th birthday—are liable for one year of active duty. Although the 1992 constitution allows for conscientious objection, no enabling legislation has yet been approved.

Of the three services, the army has the majority of personnel, resources, and influence. With about 9,000 personnel, it is organized into three corps, with six infantry divisions and three cavalry divisions. The army has two primary functions: to maintain the national defense, including internal order, and to manage some civic action projects in the countryside.

The navy consists of about 2,000 personnel divided into three service branches. Note that the Navy of Paraguay is the largest Navy of any landlocked country. The air force, the newest and smallest of the services, has about 1,500 personnel.

Military branches: Army, Navy (includes Naval Air and Marines), Air Force

Military manpower - military age: 17 years of age

Military manpower - availability:
males age 15-49: 1,349,800 (2000 est.)

Military manpower - fit for military service:
males age 15-49: 974,313 (2000 est.)

Military manpower - reaching military age annually:
males: 56,701 (2000 est.)

Military expenditures - dollar figure: $125 million (FY98)

Military expenditures - percent of GDP: 1.4% (FY98)

References and Links

• Paraguay