The BDF is a capable and well-disciplined military force. Following political changes in South Africa and the region, the BDF's missions have increasingly focused on anti-poaching activities, disaster-preparedness, and foreign peacekeeping. The United States has been the largest single contributor to the development of the BDF, and a large segment of its officer corps has received U.S. training. It is considered an apolitical and professional institution.
Military branches: Botswana Defense Force (includes Army and Air Wing), Botswana National Police
Military manpower - military age: 18 years of age
Military manpower - availability:
males age 15-49:
381,056 (2003 est.), 373,990 (2000 est.)
Military manpower - fit for military service:
males age 15-49:
201,402 (2003 est.), 196,572 (2000 est.)
Military manpower - reaching military age annually:
males:
20,476 (2003 est.), 19,132 (2000 est.)
Military expenditures - dollar figure: $207.3 million (FY02), $61 million (FY99/00)
Military expenditures - percent of GDP: 3.5% (FY02), 1.2% (FY99/00)