(Phnom Penh): Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet underscored that that strengthening national defence is a long-term responsibility that must continue amid rapidly changing global and regional security dynamics.
Speaking on Friday morning (May 15) at the celebration of the 19th Cambodian Veterans and Retirees Day in Phnom Penh, Samdech Thipadei emphasised that military reform and modernisation are not new endeavours but rather longstanding initiatives aimed at enhancing the nation's defence capabilities.
The prime minister warned that peace cannot be taken for granted and may not endure through negligence. Reflecting on Cambodia’s history of conflict, he underscored that strong self-defence capabilities are essential to protecting national sovereignty and preventing future threats.
In this context, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet emphasised the sustained implementation of military reform and modernisation to improve the effectiveness of national defence.
“National defence is an ongoing mission that extends into the future,” Samdech Thipadei stated. “The purpose of military reform and modernisation is to strengthen the long-term capabilities of our armed forces. We must act now to build our strength for the next two decades.”
He noted that Cambodia’s military reform efforts have been underway since 1979 and continue to focus on improving operational efficiency, restructuring armed forces leadership, reducing unnecessary transfers, and enhancing practical combat readiness.
On the occasion, Samdech Thipadei Hun Manet also highlighted the growing importance of modern technologies, particularly unmanned aerial vehicles (drones), which are increasingly used in reconnaissance and defence operations.
In addition, the premier reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing compulsory military service, describing it as a major step toward expanding Cambodia’s reserve forces while promoting patriotism and discipline among young people.
On 12 May 2026, Cambodia’s National Assembly unanimously passed the draft law on compulsory military service. Under the new legislation, Cambodian men aged 18 to 25 will be required to complete 24 months of military service, an increase from the 18 months outlined in the 2006 law. Military service for women remains voluntary.
The law also stipulates penalties for draft evasion, including fines and prison sentences ranging from six months to five years.
=FRESH NEWS
