Royal Lao Army

The Royal Lao Army was the official military force of Laos, active from 1949 to 1975. It was organized to defend the country's independence and maintain internal stability amid regional conflicts and Cold War tensions. Comprising both Laotian soldiers and foreign advisers, it fought against communist insurgents and Vietnamese forces. The army operated in challenging jungle terrain and was involved in various military campaigns during the Laotian Civil War. Its decline coincided with the communist takeover of Laos in 1975, leading to the disbandment of the Royal Lao Army and the establishment of a communist military structure.