Portugal

摘要

The president is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, supported by a Defense Council. The minister of defense is appointed by the prime minister, both of whom are responsible for defense policy. The three branches of the armed forces are independent, but coordinated by a Defense General Staff. The chief of general staff acts as operational commander. Portugal has drastically reduced the size of its armed forces, which once numbered over 280,000 regulars; they now total about 38,000+. There are 210,000 reservists, which form three brigades upon mobilization. Conscription was abolished in November 2004.