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Saudi Arabian Army

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Royal Saudi Land Forces
القوات البرية الملكية السعودية
Emblem of the Royal Saudi Land Forces
Founded1744 de facto
January 13, 1902 de jure [1]
CountrySaudi Arabia
TypeLand forces
RoleGround-based warfare
Size75,000[2]
Part ofArmed Forces
Garrison/HQMinistry Of Defense
Motto(s) "الله أكبر"
God is the greatest
Anniversaries13 January; 122 years ago
EquipmentList of equipment
EngagementsList of wars
Decorations
Websitewww.mod.gov.sa
Commanders
Current
commander
Lt. Gen. Fahd Al-Juhani[3]
Notable
commanders
Faisal of Saudi Arabia
Abdulaziz of Saudi Arabia
Turki bin Abdullah Al Saud (1755–1834)
Abdulaziz bin Muhammad Al Saud
Abdullah bin Saud Al Saud
Faisal al-Duwaish
Dhaydan bin Hithlain
Sultan bin Bajad Al Otaibi
Sultan bin Abdulaziz
Insignia
Flag
War flag

The Saudi Arabian Army, officially the Royal Saudi Land Forces (Arabic: القُوَّاتُ البَرِّيَّةُ المَلَكِيَّة السُّعُودِيَّة, romanizedAl-Quwwat al-Bariyah al-Malakiyah as-Su'udiyah), is the principal land warfare branch of the Armed Forces of Saudi Arabia. It is part of the Saudi Ministry of Defense, which is one of the two military departments of the government of Saudi Arabia, together with the Ministry of National Guard. Its primary mandate is the defense of Saudi Arabia’s territory and the safeguarding of national interests against external threats.[4][5]

Organized across eight regional commands, the RSLF's network extends throughout Saudi Arabia, encompassing various regional and independent commands, military institutes, colleges, specialized schools, and diverse administrative units. This extensive infrastructure enables the RSLF to maintain operational readiness and adapt to wartime conditions effectively.

The RSLF's capabilities have progressively developed, with improvements in organizational structure, leadership, and expansion of its primary weapon systems and personnel. The highest-ranking official within the RSLF is the Chairman of the General Staff, while overall command is held by the General Commander of the Saudi Land Forces, a Lieutenant General who oversees regional commands and specialized divisions.[6][7] This commander also serves on the military council at the ministerial level, guiding the strategic direction of the RSLF. Officer training primarily takes place at the War College in Riyadh, which commissions the majority of RSLF officers.[8][9][10][11][12]

History

[edit]

Genesis of the army

[edit]

In the mid-18th century, shortly after its establishment, the Saudi state lacked a formalized, modern army as seen in contemporary military structures. Instead, defense and military actions were conducted through a “Jihad Army,” mobilized upon the directive of the ruling Imam through a process of general mobilization. Historian Ibn Bishr notes that during the rule of Imam Saud bin Abdulaziz, the mobilization of the Jihad Army was achieved by dispatching envoys across towns, villages, and tribal areas under Saudi control, calling upon local forces to assemble. This collective approach allowed the Saudi state to respond to threats and expand its influence, relying on a call-to-arms system rather than a standing army.[13]

During the era of the Imams, the Saudi military organization could mobilize an estimated force of approximately 100,000 fighters, drawn from various regions and equipped with essential arms and supplies. This number included contributions from nomadic Bedouin tribes, who were required to provide a contingent of roughly 30,000 to 40,000 soldiers. However, the Saudi state lacked formal military training institutions; instead, fighters relied on personal skills, including swordsmanship, thrusting, and horsemanship, forming the core of their capabilities.

Saudi forces were divided into infantry, cavalry, and camel-mounted troops. Combat operations relied on valor and numerical strength rather than structured training or systematic combat techniques. Despite the limited formal training, Saudi fighters excelled in desert warfare, demonstrating resilience in enduring its challenges. Weaponry was traditional and basic, comprising matchlock rifles, swords, daggers, arrows, and spears. Tactics involved surprise attacks, ambushes, sieges, and hit-and-run maneuvers, focusing on adaptability in battle.

Saudi soldiers did not receive fixed salaries; instead, their compensation came from war spoils distributed following a victorious campaign. The state claimed one-fifth of the spoils for

the treasury, while the remaining four-fifths were sold and divided among soldiers, with cavalry members receiving double the shares of foot soldiers. Troops remained mobilized until directed to return to their homelands by the supreme commander. Additionally, permanent garrisons served as local security forces, rotating annually to maintain order. A dedicated personal guard protected the Imam, his successor, and other princes.[14]

Modern army

[edit]

The Saudi Arabian Army, formally founded on 5 Shawwal 1319 AH (January 15, 1902), began with King Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud's campaign to reclaim Riyadh. This moment marked the establishment of a formal military structure as the founder prioritized the organization, leadership, and armament of the Saudi Land Forces.

Before the official declaration of the Kingdom, Saudi Arabia began developing administrative and military frameworks that would shape the foundation of its national defense. By late December 1925 (1344 AH), the administrative core of the Saudi Army was established with the creation of the Army General Staff in Taif. The primary units formed at this time included the Infantry Regiment, Artillery Regiment, and Machine Gun Regiment.

The Defense Agency and the Military Department were responsible for organizing the army’s structures, standardizing military institutions, and assigning them roles in line with modern organizational standards. Taif was selected as the agency’s headquarters due to its established military presence, conducive climate for training, and available military barracks. Emphasizing education and training, the military school in Taif became central to developing a skilled officer corps, setting the stage for the Saudi Army's future expansion and modernization.

Structures

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Main Departments

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Management Department

[edit]
Military Flag (1745-1818).

The Royal Saudi Land Forces Command, one of the oldest institutions within the Saudi Arabian Army, was initially known as the "Army Administration." In its formative years, prior to 1391 AH (1971), it comprised a command office along with various departments that handled essential functions such as personnel planning and budgeting, military records, military affairs, war police, army music, medical services, civilian personnel matters, and a military trials court and prison located in Riyadh.

Military Flag (1818-1925).

In 1391 AH, the Army Management Authority underwent a reorganization, which resulted in a more streamlined structure consisting of a command office, a personnel planning department, a civilian personnel affairs department, a religious affairs department, a general medical services department, and a war police department. By 1396 AH, as the structure of the Land Forces became more formalized, the name of the authority was modified to reflect its evolving responsibilities. It was expanded to include a command office and specialized departments for personnel matters, military affairs, and personnel planning and classification, as well as a center for receiving and recruiting new recruits in Riyadh and a technical institute for the Land Forces. This authority remains responsible for overseeing personnel, staff affairs, military records, and related military matters.

Operations Department

[edit]
The War Flag of the Saudi Arabian Army (1925-).

The Royal Saudi Land Forces Operations Authority is tasked with the training, planning, and operational oversight of the land forces. Its initial formation, established in 1381 AH (1961), was known as the "War Operations Authority." This organization included three key departments: the Organization and Armament Department, the Military Training Department, and the Plans and Operations Department. In 1397 AH (1977), the name was changed to the "Land Forces Operations Authority." Subsequently, in 1411 AH (1991), the authority expanded to include an Operations Center and a Sports Affairs Department, the latter of which had previously operated as a section within the Land Forces Training Department.

Moreover, a Language School was established, which was later renamed the Military Language Institute. Initially, the War Operations Authority was affiliated with the Army Schools Command, but this command was eventually abolished. The Culture and Education Administration, responsible for educational institutions serving the children of military personnel, transitioned into an independent entity within the armed forces. Additionally, the authority incorporated a Physical Education School located in Taif, established in 1375 AH (1955), which was eventually dissolved, with its functions integrated into the Center and School for Paratroopers and Special Forces in 1398 AH (1978).

Supply Department

[edit]

The Royal Saudi Land Forces Supply and Logistics Authority, previously referred to as the "Army Supplies Authority," underwent restructuring with the reorganization of the Land Forces Command, leading to its current designation. The authority encompasses several departments, including the Department of Supply and Logistics Plans for the Land Forces and the Department of Military Supplies Inventory. These departments are responsible for coordinating supply chain operations, managing logistics, and maintaining an inventory of military supplies to support the operational readiness of the Royal Saudi Land Forces.[15]

Independent Departments

[edit]

The Land Forces Command has several associated departments, including:

  • Land Forces Inspectorate Department
  • Land Forces Officers Affairs Department
  • Land Forces Personnel Management
  • Land Forces Planning, Budgeting and Monitoring Department
  • Land Forces Internal Procurement Department
  • Land Forces Religious Affairs Department
  • Land Forces Medical Affairs Department
  • Land Forces Finance and Budget Department
  • Land Forces Training Department (newly independent from the Operations Department)
  • Land Forces Computer Department (Information Technology Department)

Independent commanders

[edit]

Geographical coverage

[edit]
Number Area Command Administrative region Military capital
1 المنطقة الشمالية الغربية العسكرية Tabuk Province Tabuk
2 المنطقة الشمالية العسكرية Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia Hafar al-Batin
3 المنطقة الشرقية العسكرية Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia Dhahran
4 المنطقة الجنوبية العسكرية Asir Khamis Mushait
5 المنطقة الغربية العسكرية Mecca Province Jeddah
6 منطقة الطائف العسكرية Mecca Province Taif
7 منطقة المدينة المنورة العسكرية Medina Province Ali's wells
8 منطقة الإمدادات والتموين العسكرية Riyadh Province Al-Kharj

Military cities

[edit]
Number City Notes
1 King Faisal Military City Established near the city of Khamis Mushait in the Southern Province in 1391 AH.
2 King Abdulaziz Military City Established in the Northern Borders Province, it was inaugurated by King Faisal in 1393 AH; 1973
3 King Khalid Military City Established near the city of Hafar al-Batin in the Northern Borders Province, its foundation stone was laid by King Khalid in 1396 AH; 1976
4 King Fahd Military City Established in the Eastern Province and inaugurated by the Minister of Defense, Aviation, and Inspector General in 1409 AH; 1988
King Khalid Military City.




Military Police Command

[edit]
Special Military Police ahead of the Hajj season.

The Military Police of the Royal Saudi Land Forces serve as a crucial component of the armed forces, responsible for maintaining military discipline and enforcing regulations. Their duties encompass overseeing compliance with military orders and protocols, and they possess the authority to take action against military personnel who violate regulations, execute judicial rulings, and manage military prisons.

In addition to their internal enforcement responsibilities, the Military Police work to prevent violations by both military and civilian individuals within areas under military jurisdiction. They are tasked with restricting access to sensitive zones, preventing acts of destruction and sabotage, securing military installations, and managing the movement and protection of military convoys. Collaboration with civil authorities on matters pertaining to the armed forces is also part of their mandate.

In operational theaters, the Military Police function as a combat support unit, contributing to the security of rear areas, overseeing prisoner custody and evacuation, maintaining law and order, and controlling transportation routes and military movements. Their multifaceted role underscores their importance in ensuring the operational effectiveness and discipline of the Royal Saudi Land Forces.

Military College Leadership

[edit]

The establishment of the first military school in Al-Rass in 1354 AH marked the beginning of an evolution in military education in Saudi Arabia, ultimately leading to the creation of a military college. Initially, this school admitted candidates with educational qualifications below the primary level, with a duration of study set at six months. In 1358 AH, the school relocated to Taif, and after a thorough assessment of its operations, a royal decree was issued on 27 Safar 1374 AH to establish a military college in Riyadh, which was named "King Abdulaziz College." The college officially opened its doors in Jumada al-Awwal 1375 AH (22 December 1955), becoming the first military academic institution in the kingdom.

In response to the increasing educational standards in Saudi Arabia and the growing demand for graduates with diverse specializations, the college raised its admission requirements to the general secondary level in 1380 AH. The study duration was extended to three years, after which graduates were awarded a Bachelor of Military Science and commissioned as officers in one of the branches of the Royal Saudi Land Forces.

The college curriculum is structured into military sciences (20.45%), academic sciences (25.34%), and general activities (55.20% for infantry and physical education). Academic subjects are taught by civilian faculty members with advanced degrees, who operate under university regulations.

Eligible candidates for admission include Saudi nationals aged between 17 and 24, holding a secondary school diploma in the scientific track. Applicants must fulfill specific admission criteria, pass a personal interview, and undergo a medical examination. The first graduating class received their Bachelor's degrees in 1382 AH.

To keep pace with advancements in various fields across the kingdom, a new campus for the college was constructed utilizing modern architectural and engineering methods, equipped with contemporary educational and training facilities. The site was strategically chosen for its proximity to Riyadh, overlooking the historically significant town of Al-Uyaynah, where Sheikh Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab initiated his Salafi call with the support of Prince Muhammad ibn Saud of Diriyah. The transition to the new college buildings was completed in Muharram 1404 AH, with the official inauguration taking place in Sha'ban 1404 AH during a grand ceremony.

Independent weapons

[edit]

Infantry

[edit]
A Humvee belonging to Saudi forces in Mogadishu in 1993.

Throughout history, the infantry soldier has been regarded as a crucial pillar of warfare, particularly during the Islamic period, where infantry played a vital role in the numerous victories achieved during Islamic conquests. As a result, the infantry soldier became a fundamental component of the army and served as the foundational nucleus from which land forces were developed.

The actual inception of the infantry branch can be traced back to the formation of an army consisting of sixty men—akin to what is commonly referred to today as a squad—led by King Abdulaziz Al Saud during the campaign to capture Riyadh on the 5th of Shawwal, 1319 AH.

Armored units

[edit]

Armored forces are regarded as one of the most crucial pillars of modern armies due to their firepower, shock resistance, and armor thickness. Over the past eighty years, these forces have undergone developments. The armored branch, or cavalry, has historically paralleled the infantry as an ancient military unit.

M1 Abrams Tank.

In the Saudi Arabian Army, the inception of armored forces began in 1348 AH (1929 CE) when King Abdulaziz Al Saud ordered the establishment of the Directorate of Military Affairs, laying the groundwork for the regular Saudi military. By 1353 AH (1934 CE), as the regular forces expanded significantly, the necessity arose to form a Defense Agency alongside the Directorate of Military Affairs. At that time, the army comprised three branches: infantry, artillery, and cavalry, marking the first official formation of armored forces.

The nucleus of the armored branch was established with small armored units based in Taif. The first command of the modern armored forces was officially created on September 1, 1377 AH (1957 CE) under the name of Cavalry Command. This command remained in place until 1387 AH (1967 CE), when a project office was established to oversee the modernization and development of armored units, introducing the latest equipment of the time, including various French weapons. Prince Abdulrahman bin Faisal bin Abdulaziz was appointed to manage this office.

On May 1, 1392 AH (1972 CE), the project office was merged with the Cavalry Command, and the name was changed to Armored Forces. In 1411 AH (1991 CE), then Major Khalid bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz was tasked with overseeing the development and modernization of armored units, introducing the American M1A2 tank and the Swiss Piranha armored vehicle into service.

Later, he became the commander of the Armored Forces with the rank of Brigadier General, continuing efforts to develop and modernize all units and formations within the Royal Saudi Land Forces. This included equipping them with the latest armored vehicles globally and training officers and personnel in their combat and technical use to keep pace with advancements in the field, ensuring their effectiveness in fulfilling operational missions. The armored branch continues to witness rapid development, benefiting from superior training capabilities and equipment. Since its inception, it has focused on nurturing young leaders by creating training opportunities with the latest equipment both within the Kingdom and abroad.

Parachute units

[edit]

The Parachute Units and Special Security Forces hold a distinguished status within the Royal Saudi Land Forces, as their members are meticulously selected from an elite group trained to undertake the most challenging and precise missions.

Artillery

[edit]
AMX-30 AuF1.

Through the battles fought by King Abdulaziz Al Saud to establish the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and unify its territories, he successfully seized several bronze cannons from the Ottoman Empire, which were utilized as artillery pieces rather than organized units or formations. In 1348 AH, His Majesty ordered the establishment of the Directorate of Military Affairs, marking the inception of the first nucleus of the regular Saudi Arabian Army. By 1353 AH, the regular forces had grown sufficiently to necessitate the formation of a Defense Agency alongside the Directorate of Military Affairs, which comprised three branches: Infantry, Artillery, and Cavalry.

Signal units

[edit]

The Signal Corps plays a crucial role in maintaining and securing communication lines within the land forces, ensuring effective communication for both the General Staff and associated administrations during peacetime and wartime. It is also responsible for developing various communication methods that align with modern military communication technologies on a global scale. The foundation of the Signal Corps can be traced back to the unification of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia under the reign of its founding king, Abdulaziz bin Abdulrahman Al Saud.

Engineers units

[edit]

The Royal Saudi Engineers Corps is a vital branch of modern warfare, facilitating the movement of ground forces while impeding enemy operations. Utilizing advanced equipment and technology, the Corps is responsible for constructing bridges, developing roads in rugged mountainous terrain, detecting and clearing contaminated areas, laying minefields, and creating pathways to enable ground forces to achieve their objectives. Its effectiveness has been demonstrated in conflicts, including the Arab-Israeli War in 1973 and the liberation of Kuwait in 1990.

The origins of the Engineers Corps date back to approximately 1362 AH (1943 CE) when the Construction Division was established to maintain army buildings, initially based in Taif. In 1366 AH, the division was renamed the Royal Saudi Engineers Corps. By 1374 AH (1954 CE), the Corps was relocated to Riyadh, aligning with the transfer of the Ministry of Defense and Aviation, and became a supporting branch under the Logistics and Supply Department.

In 1375 AH (1955 CE), the first Engineer Regiment was formed in Taif, and in 1380 AH (1960 CE), the Engineers Corps was restructured into a combat support unit, which included the Corps Command, an Engineering Division in Riyadh, the Engineers School in Taif, regional engineer branches, and the Engineer Regiment in Taif. Recognizing the importance of the Engineers Corps in battlefield support, its structure was reviewed in 1386 AH (1966 CE), resulting in the addition of heavy engineering equipment to its field units and companies.

By 1391 AH (1971 CE), several engineer units had been established throughout the Kingdom, including bomb disposal units and firefighting teams. The transition to mechanized units occurred in 1397 AH (1977 CE). In 1402 AH (1982 CE), the Corps began incorporating medium gap bridges, tank transportable bridges, portable road and airport mats, mine-laying equipment, mine detection devices, breach-opening tools, and engineer tanks designed for clearing obstacles and fortifications.

Development of the Corps continued, and in early 1418 AH (1997 CE), a new administration was established to address threats posed by weapons of mass destruction, culminating in the formation of a laboratory dedicated to this purpose at the Logistics and Supply Base in Al-Kharj on 1 Jumada I 1428 AH (18 June 2007 CE). The evolution of the Engineers Corps remains ongoing, with several future projects aimed at enhancing its capabilities to keep pace with advancements in ground forces.

Attribution units

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Maintenance unit
[edit]

The Maintenance Corps is a vital branch of the Royal Saudi Ground Forces, responsible for ensuring the operational readiness of weapons, equipment, devices, and vehicles under various conditions. Its mandate encompasses preventive maintenance, direct maintenance, general maintenance, and servicing at primary bases, all performed with a focus on high efficiency.

The origins of the Maintenance Corps can be traced back to the reign of King Abdulaziz, which began with small workshops that addressed the needs of the time. In 1369 AH (1949 CE), a new formation was established under the Logistics and Supply Department, known as the Assistant Logistics and Supply Department for Maintenance and Transport. The Transport Corps was subsequently separated from the Maintenance Corps in 1375 AH (1955 CE).

Despite this separation, the Maintenance Corps continued to fulfill its technical responsibilities, particularly in supplying the Saudi Arabian Army with modern equipment, vehicles, and spare parts. In 1382 AH (1963 CE), a program was initiated to manage military vehicles, leveraging the expertise of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. An agreement was established to regulate the maintenance of weapons, vehicles, and the supply of spare parts.

In 1386 AH (1966 CE), the Maintenance Corps became the first in Saudi Arabia to introduce computer technology for the benefit of the Ground Forces, automating technical supply operations, including the procurement of primary materials, spare parts, and technical documentation. In July 1968 (Jumada I 1388 AH), an IBM 360 computer was installed in the supply department, marking the transition to a centrally managed automated system overseen by the Maintenance Corps Command. Initially, computer usage was limited to technical supply operations and select administrative tasks, serving the various branches of the Ground Forces in terms of maintenance and supply.

Today, the Maintenance Corps is responsible for all supply management operations related to the maintenance of weapons, equipment, vehicles, and machinery within the Ground Forces, ensuring their continued functionality in all operational environments. The Corps also focuses on the development and training of technical personnel, including officers, enlisted soldiers, and civilian employees, to enhance its operational capabilities.

Catering unit

[edit]
Trucks to transport supplies.

The Catering unit is encapsulated in the well-known military adage, "Armies march on their stomachs," which underscores the essential role of logistics in both ancient and modern warfare. The Supply Corps is tasked with providing a wide range of supplies to all units of the Ground Forces and delivering administrative support to combat formations during military operations.

The origins of the Supply Corps in the Saudi military can be traced back to a supply detachment established to support brigades in specific military areas. As the Ground Forces expanded, a Supply and Logistics Department was created in 1369 AH (1949 CE) in Riyadh. By 1377 AH (1957 CE), the first technical and administrative formation of the corps was established in Riyadh, known as the Supply and Logistics Command, to align with the comprehensive development of the Saudi Arabian Army.

On December 14, 1392 AH (1972 CE), the corps underwent reorganization, leading to the creation of several branches in various military regions. This reorganization took effect on May 1, 1405 AH (1985 CE). The last amendment to the Supply Corps organization occurred on May 1, 1410 AH (1990 CE), after which the name was officially changed to the "Supply Corps" on May 1, 1413 AH (1993 CE).

Today, the Supply Corps is responsible for fulfilling the diverse supply needs of Ground Forces formations and units, including rations, clothing and gear, office and household equipment, fuel, personal requirements, ammunition, construction materials, finished products, medical supplies, spare parts, and non-military support materials. This broad scope ensures that military operations are adequately supported and that personnel are well-equipped to fulfill their missions.

The Royal Saudi Land Forces' Jeeps during the Second Gulf War in 1990.
Transportation unit
[edit]

The Transportation Corps is an essential branch of the Royal Saudi Land Forces, tasked with the critical responsibility of securing the transportation of personnel, equipment, weapons, and administrative logistics, along with various types of supplies. The corps plays a role in military operations by ensuring the efficient movement of resources and personnel across diverse operational environments.

Aviation Corps
[edit]

The Aviation Corps of the Royal Saudi Land Forces has evolved through various historical phases, establishing itself as one of the most critical combat arms within the Land Forces. This development can be largely attributed to the initiatives of Prince Sultan bin Abdulaziz, the Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense and Aviation, and Inspector General, along with his deputy, Prince Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz.

Black Hawk helicopter belonging to the Royal Saudi Land Forces Aviation Corps.

The Land Forces Operations Authority significantly contributed to the establishment of the Aviation Corps by sending a group of Land Forces officers to the United States to study rotary-wing aviation. On January 9, 1400 AH (January 9, 1980), approval was granted to create the Aviation Project Office within the Land Forces Operations, alongside the acquisition of advanced helicopters for the Aviation Corps.

A milestone in the development of aviation within the Land Forces occurred on August 1, 1402 AH (August 1, 1982), when the Aviation Project Office was transformed into the Army Aviation Command to accommodate its expanding scope and responsibilities. Subsequently, on July 1, 1417 AH (July 1, 1997), the command was renamed the Land Forces Aviation Command, reflecting its enhanced operational role within the Saudi military framework.

Academic facilities

[edit]

Institutes

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  • Military Language Institute
  • Royal Technical Institute
  • Royal Infantry Institute
  • Royal Armored unit Institute

Centers

[edit]
  • Paratroopers and Special Security Forces Center and School
  • Royal Maintenance Corps Center and School
  • Royal Artillery Center and School
  • Military Aviation Center and School
  • Royal Signal Corps Center and School
  • Royal Quartermaster Corps Center and School
  • Royal Corps of Engineers Center and School
  • Royal Transport Corps Center and School
  • Driving Training Centers
  • Military Management School
  • Weapons of Mass Destruction Prevention School

Officers and soldiers

[edit]

Military ranks

[edit]
General (Staff) Fahd bin Turki Al Saud
Military unit General / flag officers Senior officers Junior officers
Fariq 'awal Fariq Liwa Amid Aqid Muqaddam Ra'id Naqib Mulazim awwal Mulazim
Administrative
Field
Fighter

Other ranks

[edit]
Military unit Senior NCOs Junior NCOs Enlisted
Rayiys ruqaba' Raqib 'awal Raqib Wakil raqib Earif Jundiun awwal Jundiun
Administrative No insignia
Field
Fighter

Military uniform

[edit]

Military hats

[edit]
Royal Saudi Land Forces Hats
Military police cap Formal hat Special Forces Hat

Camouflage uniform

[edit]
Royal Saudi Land Forces Digital Camouflage.


Equipment

[edit]
Model photo type Country of origin Notes
مسدس
Browning Hi-Power Semi-automatic pistol  Belgium
Glock Semi-automatic pistol  Austria
رشاش
FN P90 Submachine gun  Belgium
eckler & Koch G36 Assault rifle  Germany Manufactured under license at the General Establishment for Military Industries
Heckler & Koch G3 Assault rifle  Saudi Arabia

 Germany

Manufactured under license at the General Establishment for Military Industries
M4 carbine Assault rifle  United States
Steyr AUG Assault rifle  Austria
AK-103 Assault rifle  Russia

 Saudi Arabia

Manufactured under license at the Saudi Military Industries Company
FN MAG General-purpose machine gun  Belgium
M2 Browning Heavy machine gun  United States

Anti-weapons

[edit]
Model photo type Country of origin Notes
Anti-weapons
FIM-92 Stinger Anti-tank guided missile  United States
FGM-148 Javelin Anti-tank guided missile  United States
Swingfire Anti-tank guided missile  United Kingdom
Vickers Vigilant Anti-tank guided missile  United Kingdom
M47 Dragon Anti-tank guided missile  United States
AGM-114 Hellfire Anti-tank guided missile  United States
HOT (missile) Anti-tank guided missile  Germany

 France

Brimstone (missile) Brimstone (missile)  United Kingdom
RBS 56B BILL 2 Anti-tank guided missile  Sweden
SS.11 Anti-tank guided missile  France
BGM-71 TOW Anti-tank guided missile  United States
RPG-7 Anti-tank guided missile  Soviet Union
9M133 Kornet Anti-tank guided missile  Russia

 Saudi Arabia

Manufactured under license at the Saudi Military Industries Company

Mortar

[edit]
Model photo type Country of origin Notes
Mortar
M224 mortar Mortar  United States
Mortier 120mm Mortar  France
M30 mortar Mortar  United States

Heavy weapons

[edit]

Tanks

[edit]
Model photo Country of origin Type Quantity Notes
Tanks
M1 Abrams  United States M1A2SEP 442
  • The Kingdom purchased 373 M1A2 tanks, plus 69 M1A2SEP tanks ordered on June 8, 2013 and delivered by July 31, 2014.[16][17]
  • Later the Kingdom decided to upgrade all copies of the M1A2 to the M1A2SEP.
M60 tank  United States M60A3 450[18]
  • 485 tanks were acquired.
  • Officially it will be transferred to the reserve but many battalions are still using it.
AMX-30  France 350[19]
  • Purchased 250 tanks between 1973 and 1974.[20]
  • Now serving as a reserve tank.
  • The kingdom is retiring AMX-30 tanks by selling them to several buyers, such as the Tunisian Land Forces.

Wagons

[edit]
Model photo Country of origin Type Quantity Notes
Infantry fighting vehicle
M2 Bradley  United States M2A2 400[21] The Saudi army's main infantry combat vehicle.[22]
AMX-10P  France 500 bought 500 from France in 1974, most of which are now stored in reserve.
Armoured personnel carrier
M113 armored personnel carrier  United States

 Saudi Arabia  Turkey

Many 3000 364 upgraded in Turkey. Many of them have been modified at SAMI[22]
TPz Fuchs
 West Germany NBC reconnaissance

Ambulance CP version

175
Joint Light Tactical Vehicle  United States Vehicle armour 1859
LAV III  Canada Vehicle armour 500
Mowag Piranha   Switzerland Vehicle armour 150
EE-11 Urutu  Brazil Vehicle armour 250
Nexter Aravis  France 200 [23]
Panhard M3  France 150
Cadillac Gage Commando  United States 579
Panhard AML  France 235
Al Masmak (armored)  Saudi Arabia 2,750 [24][25]
Al-Fahd  Saudi Arabia Vehicle armour 2000+
Four-wheel drive
Humvee  United States +15,000
Commercial Utility Cargo Vehicle  United States +2,000
URO VAMTAC  Spain 300 [26]

Artillery

[edit]
Model photo Country of origin Type Quantity Notes
Artillery and missile systems
M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System  United States Multiple rocket launcher 50
TOS-1  Saudi Arabia

 Soviet Union

Multiple rocket launcher N/A Manufactured under license at the Saudi Military Industries Company
Astros II  Brazil Multiple rocket launcher 72 SS-30
PLZ-45  China Self-propelled artillery 54
M109 howitzer  United States Self-propelled artillery 48

110

M109A5

M109A2 155mm self-propelled howitzer

AMX-30 AuF1  France Self-propelled artillery 51 155mm self-propelled howitzer
M198 howitzer  United States Howitzer 120
FH70  United Kingdom Howitzer 40 155-millimeter howitzer
M114 155 mm howitzer  United States Howitzer 50 They are all stored in the reserve.
M102 howitzer  United States Howitzer 140
M101 howitzer  United States Howitzer 100 They are all stored in the reserve.
M224 mortar  United States
Brandt 60 mm LR gun-mortar  France
Mortier 120 mm Rayé Tracté Modèle F1  France 200
2R2M 120MM  France 28
M30 mortar  United States
PLZ-45  China 54
M109 howitzer  United States 280
CAESAR 155mm  France 100
AMX-30 AuF1  France 90
FH70  European Union 72

Military planes

[edit]
Model photo Country of origin type Version Quantity Notes
Military planes
Boeing AH-64 Apache  United States Attack helicopter AH-64D 92 .
Bell OH-58 Kiowa  United States Scout Helicopter Bell 406CS 13
Sikorsky UH-60 Black Hawk  United States Military transport aircraft UH-60L 37 Saudi Arabia has ordered 24 UH-60L helicopters worth $350 million.
Sikorsky S-70  United States Medical evacuation S-70A1L 8
Boeing CH-47 Chinook  United States Military transport aircraft ?
Aeryon Scout  Canada Unmanned aerial vehicle 10
Saqr (drone)  Saudi Arabia Unmanned aerial vehicle 145+

Radars and satellite

[edit]
Model photo Type Country of origin Notes
Satellites
SaudiSat 1, 2, 3, 4 Satellite  Saudi Arabia
Saudi Kamsat 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Satellite  Saudi Arabia
Pleiad Satellite Satellite  France
Falcon Eye Satellite  France
Radar
i.e., 117 Radar  United States
i.e., 43 Radar  United States
Spescer 2000 Radar  France

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Historical Dictionary of Saudi Arabia (15 March 2020). Historical Dictionary of Saudi Arabia. Rowman & Littlefield. p. 480. ISBN 9781538119808. Archived from the original on 14 February 2023. Retrieved 29 June 2020.
  2. ^ IISS (2021). The Military Balance 2021. Routledge. p. 363. ISBN 978-1-032-01227-8.
  3. ^ https://www.spa.gov.sa/en/N2162669
  4. ^ Commander-in-Chief's Speech / Saudi Arabia Land Forces Portal Archived October 22, 2017, at the Wayback Machine.
  5. ^ About the Land Forces of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Archived October 22, 2017, at the Wayback Machine.
  6. ^ Organization of the Land Forces of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Archived October 22, 2017, at the Wayback Machine.
  7. ^ Fighter from the Desert (Third Saudi State) Archived May 07, 2017, at the Wayback Machine.
  8. ^ Chief of General Staff and Commander of Naval Forces to retire Appointment of Chief of Staff, Deputy Chief of Staff, Air Force Commander and Royal Navy Commander, Riyadh Newspaper. Archived October 22, 2017, at the Wayback Machine.
  9. ^ His Highness General Fahd bin Turki receives the flag of the Saudi Land Forces from its predecessor commander, Okaz newspaper. Archived August 14, 2017 at the Wayback Machine.
  10. ^ Military ranks of the Royal Saudi Land Forces Archived October 22, 2017, at the Wayback Machine.
  11. ^ kf About Saudi Land Forces / Ministry of Defense Portal Archived November 07, 2017, at the Wayback Machine.
  12. ^ Ministry of Defense and General Inspectorate. Origins and Development Chief of Staff Archived October 10, 2017, at the Wayback Machine.
  13. ^ Features of the system of government and administration in the first Saudi state Saudi Military System 1745-1818 Archived April 19, 2014, at the Wayback Machine.
  14. ^ Features of the System of Government and Administration in the Second Saudi State Saudi Military System 1823-1891 Archived September 13, 2014, at the Wayback Machine.
  15. ^ Complete data on the Saudi Arabian Army, Saturday, March 1, 2008, Arab Army Forum Archived October 22, 2017, at the Wayback Machine.
  16. ^ "The 2006 Saudi Shopping Spree: $2.9B to Upgrade M1 Abrams Tank Fleet". DefenseIndustryDaily.com. January 4, 2011. Archived from the original on 2006-10-25. Accessed on 2011-07-28.
  17. ^ "Saudi Arabia Orders 69 More M1A2S Abrams Heavy Tanks". Deagel.com, January 8, 2013. Archived September 08, 2017 at the Wayback Machine.
  18. ^ "Royal Saudi Land Force Equipment". Global Security. Archived from the original on 2018-06-12. Accessed on 2015-04-09.
  19. ^ "Royal Saudi Land Force Equipment". Global Security. Archived from the original on 2018-06-12. Accessed on 2015-04-09.
  20. ^ "American Alliance Policy in the Middle East". Archived from the original on 2016-04-27. Accessed 2015-04-09.
  21. ^ "Royal Saudi Land Force Equipment". Global Security. Archived from the original on 2018-06-12. Accessed on 2015-04-09.
  22. ^ a b Military Balance 2005- page 135
  23. ^ " - " " "". Archived from the original on 2016-03-13. Accessed on 2014-12-25.
  24. ^ "Al-Masmak Masmak Nyoka Mk2 MRAP Mine Resistant Armored Personnel Carrier technical data sheet - Army Recognition - Army Recognition". Archived from the original on 2015-07-04. Accessed on 2014-12-25.
  25. ^ "Saudi Al-Masmak Achieves the Highest Protection Level Recorded for MRAP". Archived from the original on 2014-12-25. Accessed on 2014-12-25.
  26. ^ Administrator. "30 VAMTAC's to Saudi Arabia". Archived from the original on 2015-09-23. Accessed 2014-12-25.