Military administration of Rashtrakuta Empire was supervised by able generals. However there is no record regarding the exact strength of its infantry, cavalry and elephant corps. It can be presumed that the Rashtrakuta army was not less than half a million strong. A considerable portion was concentrated at the capital. South sections also possessed an army usually under the Banavasi viceroy, and an army of the North commanded by a prince of the blood royal. The standing armies were maintained for the protection of the empire from enemies. They also carried out aggressive expeditions whenever the central government felt the need for it.

The army was famous for its infantry divisions. Cavalry also played a major role. Some of the battalions consisted of men from military castes, the soldiers of which followed their profession as a matter of heredity; these usually enjoyed the reputation of crack divisions. Some battalions were supplied by feudatories and provincial governors. When important military ventures had to be undertaken they were summoned. Troops of the military castes received professional training in their villages before they joined the divisions. Some were trained and led by adventurous mercenaries or condottieri who were paid directly by the government. The army consisted of persons from all castes. Even Brahmans and Jains were also represented. Many of the famous Rashtrakuta generals like Bankeya, Srivijaya and Marasimha were Jains.

The Rashtrapathi as head of the state was also responsible for military administration. A well developed and disciplined army was maintained. The two wings were infantry and cavalry. Almost all the ministers had to serve in the military. All cabinet ministers possessed military training.

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