Saudi Arabia Military
The largest and most influential nation on the Arabian Peninsula, Saudi Arabia is strategically located between the Red Sea and the Arabian Gulf. It contains Islam's two most holy sites and the world's largest petroleum producing infrastructure. A stalwart friend and long-time ally of the United States, the Kingdom is recognized as the key to regional security. This relationship was underlined once again in October 1994, when U.S. forces deployed to the Kingdom in response to threatening moves by Iraq. The Saudis are now assuming an expanded, more active role in world affairs, evidenced by their contributions to the international relief effort in Somalia and their continuing financial support for rebuilding the infrastructure in Lebanon following the Taif agreement.
Military branches:
Land Forces (Army), Navy, Air Force, Air Defense Force, National Guard, Ministry of Interior Forces (paramilitary)
