Uganda introduces new service doctrines for Land Forces, Air Force and Special Forces

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The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has unveiled Service Doctrines for the Land Forces, Air Force and Special Forces Command.

The development announced earlier today ( May 21 ) aims at enhancing professionalism, interoperability and doctrine-based operations across the Force.

Army doctrine is a set of fundamental principles, tactics, and procedures that guide military forces in support of national objectives. 

At the launch at the Defence Intelligence and Security Headquarters, the Chief of Joint Staff, Lieutenant General Jack Bakasumba on Wednesday commended personnel who contributed to the development of the doctrines from inception to completion.

On behalf of the Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Joint Staff Training and Doctrine representative, Brigadier General Keita, said the new doctrines would provide a strategic and operational link between the three services, enabling coordinated action.

“The launch of these doctrines demonstrates the institutional readiness of the UPDF to operate under a unified doctrinal framework. They ensure that we train to a common standard, plan with shared intent, and fight as one joint force,” said Kieta.

Keita, according to a release from the ministry of Defence  and Veterans Affairs, said the development of the doctrines was driven by the growing need for operational-level guidance aligned to the three active services of the UPDF.

“The launch of these Service Doctrines is justified by the need to institutionalise doctrine-based planning and execution across all services of the UPDF,” he said.

He described them as “the cement that binds an army together,” noting that they would establish a common language, shared understanding of warfare, and a unified approach to training, planning, command and operations within the UPDF.

“Doctrines are the foundation upon which military forces develop capacity, plan operations, and sustain missions. Doctrine gives the force more than guidance; it gives it coherence,” he added.

Brig Gen Keita observed that the doctrines are expected to strengthen confidence in the UPDF’s readiness to address modern security challenges while enhancing its image as a professional and modern force.

“These Service Doctrines represent more than publications. They capture the operational experience of the UPDF and establish a professional framework on how the Services generate and apply combat power in support of national objectives,” he added.

Senior officers at the events included : heads of Joint Staff Services, Service Chiefs of Staff, Directors, Generals, senior officers of the UPDF, and officials from the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.