President of Kazakhstan held a Security Council meeting on military reform

Tengrinews.kz — President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev chaired a Security Council meeting where a military reform plan was reviewed and approved. According to Akorda, the changes will encompass conscription, soldier training, army structure, and the protection of service members' rights.
The Head of State emphasized that Kazakhstan must rapidly develop a modern, mobile, and high-tech military. He noted that the changes should impact nearly every aspect of military service.

"The task is to transform the quality of the Armed Forces. This concerns management, personnel training, HR policy, military education, defense planning, and technological equipment. Special attention must be paid to service safety, command culture, and the efficient use of state resources. The army's interaction with society must also change. We are talking about comprehensive reform; halfway measures will not yield the necessary results," Tokayev stated.

The President ordered the commission conducting a comprehensive review of the Ministry of Defense to complete its work by the end of the year.
Changes to Conscription
One of the primary changes is the transition to a two-stage model for conscripted service.
New recruits will undergo training at specialized centers for the first six months. The following six months will be spent serving directly in military units, where the focus will shift to combat training and carrying out tasks within their respective divisions.
Thus, compulsory service will consist of two distinct six-month stages.
Other Planned Military Reforms
The military reform plan includes a restructuring of the Armed Forces, improvements to the management system, and enhanced defense planning. Additionally, Kazakhstan intends to establish an Unmanned Systems Force.
Particular focus will be placed on soldier safety and the protection of their rights. There are plans to establish institutes for military consultants and an Ombudsman for Military Personnel. Furthermore, measures are being introduced to prevent hazing and strengthen discipline.
Military education will also see changes. The country plans to expand its network of specialized military schools, improve initial military training, and develop the "Zhas Aibyn" system of military-patriotic education.
Additionally, a new information and communication strategy will be developed for the Armed Forces to help strengthen public trust in the military.
Reform Timeline
Aida Balayeva, Deputy Chair of the Security Council, presented the key provisions of the plan during the meeting. Defense Minister Aidos Myrzakhmetov reported on the planned modernization of the military.
According to the presented timeline, organizational activities are to be completed by the end of 2026, with the core changes slated for 2027.
Following the meeting, the Security Council approved the military reform plan. Tokayev stressed the importance of the timely and full implementation of the scheduled changes.
The Government and the Security Council will coordinate the implementation of the reform.