Abstract:

Amidst financial realignments, political pressures, and the supplementary effects of the ongoing

war in Ukraine, the defence and security landscape of Central Asia is currently undergoing a

rapid transformation in directions and policies. With new external actors now gaining significant

influence in the region, and each of these Central Asian states now being forced to make critical

long-term decisions regarding their defence and security strategies, the time to understand and

analyse the security infrastructure and framework inside Central Asia has become more

important than ever.

This thematic panel will explore the current and evolving military markets inside Central Asia, as

well as the impending shifts in the defence and security policies of these states. With the

information being presented by the panel is based on one of the forthcoming chapters of the

"The Armed Forces of Central Asia” military handbook, published by the Oxus Society. This

handbook offers a comprehensive analysis of defence expenditures, procurement trends, and

market dynamics across the five Central Asian nations. Compiled by a consortium of think tank experts, defence analysts, and regional specialists, the handbook provides extensive data on the types of military equipment being acquired, the countries from which these acquisitions are being made, and the shifting alliances that are shaping these procurement decisions.

The proposed panel will feature presentations from the handbook's key contributors, who will

utilise an array of visual aids, including maps, charts, and procurement data, to facilitate an

engaging discussion. In addition, the panel will also explore the broader political and economic

contexts influencing these trends, offering simulations to model potential future scenarios and

their implications for Central Asian defence capabilities.