King Salman University for National Defense Builds on Seven-Decade Legacy to Develop Leadership, Strategic Capabilities

  King Salman University for National Defense is entering a new phase of development, building on a seven-decade legacy of achievements that has made it a leading entity within the Ministry of Defense, evolving institutionally and academically to keep pace with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s military education requirements.

 The approval of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud to rename the National Defense University as King Salman University for National Defense represents a source of pride for the institution, its staff, and graduates. The decision reflects the leadership’s commitment to advancing education, developing academic institutions, and strengthening their role in safeguarding the Kingdom’s security, unity, and stability, as well as protecting its holy sites, national achievements, and vital resources.

 The university’s origins date back to 1958, when it was established as the Institute of Great Officers to train Saudi Arabian Army officers in command and staff duties and responsibilities. In 1383 AH, it was renamed the Institute of Senior Officers.

 In 1388 AH, a Royal Decree transformed the institute into the Saudi Command and Staff College and approved its governing statutes. King Faisal bin Abdulaziz presided over the graduation ceremony of the college’s first cohort. In 1405 AH, the institution was renamed the Command and Staff College of the Armed Forces, and its headquarters moved from central Riyadh to Al-Uyaynah.

 A War Wing was established in 1430 AH, followed by the inauguration of the Armed Forces Strategic Studies Center in 1436 AH to strengthen operational and strategic training and advance scientific research.

 In 2024, as part of the Ministry of Defense’s development objectives, the college became the National Defense University. This expansion broadened its mission to include preparing and qualifying military and civilian leaders, as well as decision-makers across the national security system.

 The university comprises the Joint Command and Staff College, the War College, the Strategic Studies Center, and the Leadership Development Center, in addition to the Agency for Academic Affairs and the Agency for Executive Services.

 Its specialized academic offerings include master’s degrees in Strategic Studies and Military Sciences, as well as diplomas in National Security and Strategic Leadership, International Humanitarian Law, and Public Policy. It also offers courses in joint operations planning, crisis management, and future foresight, and hosts events, seminars, and forums addressing the broader concept of national security.

 The university continues to build on its legacy through its academic framework, specialized programs, and strategic research, contributing to the growth of leadership and strategic capabilities, supporting decision-making, and advancing the Ministry of Defense’s broader development objectives.