Kazakhstan to split conscript service into two stages under military reform

Kazakhstan has approved a military reform plan that provides for the creation of Unmanned Forces and a two-stage model of conscript service. Under the plan, new conscripts will spend the first six months at training centers and the next six months in military units. The document was reviewed at a Security Council meeting chaired by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, the Akorda presidential press service reported.

Tokayev stressed the need to build a modern, mobile and technologically advanced army in the shortest possible time. Deputy Security Council Chair Aida Balayeva presented the main provisions of the plan. Measures include creating institutes of military consultants and a Commissioner for Servicemen's Affairs, as well as preventing non-regulation relations and strengthening discipline.

Defense Minister Aidos Myrzakhmetov reported that organizational measures of the plan are to be implemented by the end of 2026, and core conceptual measures in 2027. Tokayev also instructed that a commission conducting a comprehensive review of the Defense Ministry be completed by the end of the year. The reform follows the deaths of 14 servicemen during exercises in Mangistau region.