Uzbekistan Aims to Boost Defense with UAVs, Robotics, and Cybersecurity

On January 13, President Shavkat Mirziyoyev held an expanded meeting of Uzbekistan’s Security Council, announcing new benefits for conscripted servicemen and outlining a modernization drive for the country’s defense sector.

The president emphasized the integration of advanced technologies in military training and operations, The Caspian Post reports.

Beginning this year, competitions for conscripts will include not only traditional sports such as kurash, hand-to-hand combat, and weightlifting, but also esports, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operation, and robotics.

“The army of Uzbekistan must always be mobile, high-tech, adapted to new combat conditions, and ready to defend the people,” Mirziyoyev said.

He stressed the importance of equipping the armed forces with unmanned systems powered by artificial intelligence, robotic complexes, and light equipment. The president also highlighted the introduction of digital technologies and AI in the defense industry as a strategic priority.

Cybersecurity and the resilience of national digital infrastructure were identified as key areas of focus. Officials were tasked with implementing measures to safeguard personal data and secure critical digital systems.

This initiative builds on a directive issued in November 2024, when Mirziyoyev ordered the reorganization of pre-conscription training in schools. That directive introduced competitions for senior students in esports, robotics, UAV operation, and other so-called “games of the future,” aimed at preparing youth for modern defense challenges.