Armenia is pursuing a comprehensive modernization of its armed forces and strengthening its air defense capabilities with the goal of ensuring greater self-reliance in protecting the country’s airspace, Chief of the General Staff of the Armed Forces Edvard Asryan said during a briefing.
Addressing questions about military procurement and the equipment displayed during the recent military parade, Asryan stressed that Armenia’s defense acquisitions are based on detailed assessments rather than symbolic purchases.
“We do not buy weapons randomly. We assess all parameters and criteria, whether the weapons can be integrated into our existing armaments and equipment, whether our troops are capable of learning to use them, and how they will fit into our overall command and automated control systems,” he said.
Responding to criticism from opposition figures regarding some of the military equipment showcased during the parade, Asryan defended the Armed Forces’ modernization efforts, noting that the army has been rebuilding and replenishing its capabilities following wartime losses.
“The army had to restore its losses, acquire new equipment and weapons, and rebuild its backbone. Through hard work and the daily efforts of the Ministry of Defense, we have managed to do that and present the results to society,” he said.
Asryan also addressed air defense challenges, noting that Armenia’s military transformation places particular emphasis on strengthening air defense, missile defense, and counter-drone capabilities. He noted that recently acquired systems, including fighter aircraft and their missile armaments, play an important role in the country’s integrated air defense architecture.
Asryan added that cooperation with the Military Industry Committee and domestic defense companies is helping Armenia obtain new capabilities that improve the effectiveness of its air defense network.
He argued that Armenia’s air defense, missile defense, and counter-drone systems are currently in a stronger position than they were before 2018 and stressed that the country’s security must primarily rely on its own capabilities.
“Armenia’s air defense, missile defense, and counter-drone systems must rely on themselves. We should not place our hopes on anyone else. We must become strong enough to independently carry out the tasks required to defend the territory of the Republic of Armenia,” Asryan said.
