Military History of Austria

Austria's military history is largely defined by its role in the Holy Roman Empire and later as the center of the Habsburg Monarchy. From the late Middle Ages to World War I, Austria was a major European power, known for its well-organized armies. Key conflicts include the Napoleonic Wars, where Austria faced significant defeats, and World War I, which led to the empire's collapse. Post-war, Austria established a neutral stance, maintaining a small military. Today, it focuses on peacekeeping and international cooperation, having learned from its past experiences in large-scale conflicts.