Bhutan

Kingdom of Bhutan

This small nation nestled in the Himalayan range of Southern Asia has roots in the ancient civilization of Lhomon. A Buddhist nation with close ties to Tibetan culture, Bhutan avoided European colonization although it was involved in several skirmishes with British Indian forces during the 18th and 19th centuries, culminating in the Duar War (1864-1865). Although a monarchy, the present state is governed by a National Assembly.

The Armed Forces of Bhutan have a strong relationship with that of neighboring India, which maintains and ongoing Indian Military Training Team (IMTRAT) to assist in the instruction of the Royal Bhutan Army and Royal Body Guards.