Armenia’s Existential Choice: Embracing the Garrison State Model for National Security

Armenia’s survival and long-term stability must depend, first and foremost, on its ability to secure itself. While fostering strong external relations and diversifying security partnerships, such as those with France, India, the European Union, and the United States, are undeniably important, they cannot replace the necessity of self-reliance. Armenia must transform itself into a garrison state, akin to Israel and Switzerland, to ensure its sovereignty and protect its people. This is not merely a strategic choice but a existential imperative for a nation that has faced repeated threats to its survival.

Armenia’s small population, approximately 3 million within the country and an estimated 10 million in the diaspora, presents both a challenge and an opportunity. While its size may seem like a disadvantage, it also allows for a more streamlined and cohesive approach to national defense. By leveraging its human capital and mobilizing both private and public initiatives, Armenia can build a robust security infrastructure capable of withstanding external threats.

The 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh war serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities Armenia faces. During the global COVID-19 pandemic, the world’s attention was diverted, and hostile neighbors seized the opportunity to advance their territorial ambitions. Azerbaijan, with the backing of Turkey and the tacit support of Russia, launched a military campaign that resulted in the ethnic cleansing of Armenians from Artsakh (Nagorno-Karabakh), a region where they have lived for millennia. This tragedy underscores the harsh reality that, in times of crisis, external allies may be preoccupied with their own challenges, leaving Armenia to fend for itself.

While Armenia can and should continue to procure advanced weaponry from allies like India and France, these measures alone are insufficient. The geopolitical environment in the South Caucasus remains volatile, and the threat of renewed aggression from Azerbaijan, Turkey, and other adversaries looms large. To counter this, Armenia must adopt the model of a garrison state, a nation where security is deeply embedded in its societal fabric, economy, and governance.

The Garrison State Model: Lessons from History

History offers compelling examples of how small nations have successfully defended themselves through self-reliance and strategic preparedness. Switzerland, during World War II, is a prime case study. Despite being surrounded by Axis powers, Switzerland maintained its neutrality and sovereignty by transforming itself into a fortress nation. Its mountainous terrain, coupled with a well-organized militia system and a policy of armed neutrality, made invasion a costly and unappealing prospect for Nazi Germany. The Swiss understood that their survival depended on their ability to deter aggression through strength and preparedness.

Israel provides another powerful example. Surrounded by hostile neighbors and outnumbered demographically, Israel has built one of the most advanced and self-sufficient defense systems in the world. Its success lies in its ability to innovate, adapt, and maintain a state of constant readiness. While Israel has enjoyed support from Western nations, its survival has ultimately hinged on its own military capabilities, technological prowess, and the resilience of its people.

These examples illustrate a universal truth: a nation’s security is its own responsibility. External alliances and diplomatic support are valuable, but they cannot replace the need for internal preparedness. Armenia must internalize this lesson and take decisive steps to build its own security-industrial complex, train its population, and foster a culture of resilience.

The Path Forward for Armenia

To become a garrison state, Armenia must prioritize several key areas:

1. Military Modernization and Self-Sufficiency: Armenia should invest in domestic defense industries to reduce reliance on foreign arms suppliers. This includes developing capabilities in drone technology, cyber defense, and precision weaponry, areas where Israel has excelled.
2. Civil Defense and National Resilience: Every citizen, regardless of age or gender, should be prepared to contribute to national defense. This requires comprehensive training programs, akin to Switzerland’s militia system, and the establishment of a robust civil defense infrastructure.
3. Economic and Technological Innovation: A strong economy is the backbone of national security. Armenia should leverage its tech-savvy population and diaspora to drive innovation in defense and dual-use technologies.
4. Strategic Alliances with a Focus on Self-Reliance: While external partnerships are important, they should complement, not replace, Armenia’s own capabilities. Diplomatic efforts should focus on securing guarantees of support while building internal strength.
5. Cultural and Historical Awareness: Armenia’s rich history, unique culture, and ancient Christian heritage are sources of national pride and resilience. These elements should be woven into the fabric of its security strategy, reminding its people of what they are fighting to protect.

Conclusion: The Imperative of Self-Reliance

Armenia’s survival hinges on its ability to defend itself. As the saying goes, “When defending your home, you cannot wait for the police to arrive.” The same principle applies to nations. External allies may offer support, but they will not bear the primary burden of defending Armenia’s sovereignty. The lessons of history are clear: nations that prioritize self-reliance and preparedness are best positioned to withstand external threats.

Armenia’s journey toward becoming a garrison state will not be easy, but it is necessary. By investing in its people, modernizing its defenses, and fostering a culture of resilience, Armenia can secure its future and honor the legacy of its ancestors, who have defended their homeland for thousands of years. The time to act is now, for the stakes could not be higher.

In the words of the ancient Armenian saying, “A nation that forgets its defense will lose its land.” Armenia must remember this truth and take its destiny into its own hands.

Disclaimer: Everything I write in my articles is my own work and reflects my ideas. I use AI solely for reorganizing and refining the text to align with a professional article format.