Army

An army is a nation's land-based military force charged with defending the state, securing territory, and supporting national security objectives. It operates as a component of the armed forces alongside the navy and air force, and is typically under civilian control through a defense ministry or equivalent authority.

Armies focus on ground operations, including conventional warfare, counterinsurgency, peacekeeping, disaster response, and security operations. They commonly include infantry, armored, and artillery capabilities, along with engineers, logistics, medical, intelligence, and communications units. In many countries the term army refers to the primary land service, while some nations maintain separate land defense services or combine roles with paramilitary forces.

Historically, armies emerged from feudal levies and city-state militias before evolving into permanent professional forces. The rise of mass conscription and industrialized warfare in the 19th and 20th centuries transformed armies into large, highly organized institutions. After World War II, many nations moved toward professional volunteer forces and modernized their equipment, command structures, and logistics networks. Modern armies increasingly rely on joint operations with air and naval forces and on multinational partnerships.

Most armies are organized in a hierarchical structure of units, from squads and platoons to companies, battalions, brigades, divisions, and corps. They rely on integrated support services for logistics, maintenance, medical care, intelligence, engineering, and communications. Training emphasizes basic soldier skills, leadership development, specialized career tracks, and combat readiness.

Recruitment methods vary by country, including conscription, voluntary enlistment, or a mixed system. Armies conduct regular training, exercises, and professional development to maintain readiness. They operate under national law and international obligations, including rules of engagement and the laws of armed conflict.

In addition to defending the homeland, armies participate in international missions, peacekeeping, disaster relief, and collective security arrangements through alliances and United Nations operations. Public perception and budget decisions influence strategy, modernization, and force structure.