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The constitution designates the president as commander in chief of the armed forces. Military service is compulsory, and all 18-year-old males--and 17 year olds in the year of their 18th birthday--are eligible to serve for one year on active duty. However, the 1992 constitution allows for conscientious objection. Of the three services, the army has the majority of personnel, resources, and influence. With about 7,000 personnel, it is organized into three corps, with six infantry divisions and three cavalry divisions. The military has two primary functions: national defense (including internal order) and engaging in civic action programs as directed by the president. The navy consists of approximately 2,000 personnel and in addition to its fleet, has an aviation section, a prefecture (river police), and a contingent of marines (naval infantry). The air force, the newest and smallest of the services, has approximately 1,200 personnel. |
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