Royal Army of Afghanistan

The Royal Army of Afghanistan was the country's official land military force from 1880 until 1978. It was established to defend Afghanistan's sovereignty and maintain internal stability, often supported by British and later Soviet military aid. Comprising infantry, cavalry, and support units, it played roles in regional conflicts and internal reforms. The army was modeled on Western military standards and was a key institution in the monarchy period, which ended with the 1978 communist revolution. After that, it was replaced by subsequent military forces, reflecting Afghanistan’s ongoing political shifts.