ABSTRACT

Between 1962 and 2011, Myanmar boasted the modern world's most durable military dictatorship. The evolution of Myanmar society and demands for wider reforms will test the generals' willingness to permit further changes to their status and influence, and their ability to control developments. In terms of defence spending per capita, Myanmar still rates below most other regional countries, but the Tatmadaw has enjoyed a privileged position in Naypyitaw's accounts. Over the past 30 years, there have been numerous claims that Myanmar has tried to develop, or has even acquired, weapons of mass destruction. Arguably, before the international community embraced Thein Sein's reform programme and developed closer relations with his government, Myanmar had a strategic rationale for the acquisition of such weapons. The Tatmadaw's military doctrine has been revised to 'suit the new political context' and changed strategic circumstances.