Defence Staff (Uruguay)

The Estado Mayor de la Defensa (ESDE), translated as Defence Staff, is the highest military advisory body to the Minister of National Defence in Uruguay. It is responsible for planning, coordinating, and supervising the joint operations of the Uruguayan Armed Forces, which include the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

The Defence Staff assists the Minister in formulating and implementing national defence policy and ensures the operational readiness and effectiveness of the armed forces. Its functions include:

• Providing strategic and operational guidance to the armed forces.
• Developing joint military doctrines and procedures.
• Coordinating joint military exercises and operations.
• Advising the Minister on military matters and international security issues.
• Managing the allocation of resources for joint operations.
• Representing Uruguay in international military forums.

The Chief of the Defence Staff (Spanish: Jefe del Estado Mayor de la Defensa) is the highest-ranking military officer in Uruguay and is appointed by the President, acting on the advice of the Minister of National Defence. The Chief of the Defence Staff reports directly to the Minister.

The ESDE is composed of officers from all three branches of the armed forces and civilian personnel. Its structure includes directorates and departments responsible for various areas, such as operations, intelligence, logistics, and planning. The Defence Staff plays a crucial role in ensuring the security and defence of Uruguay.