Selassie held several military ranks

Haile Selassie held a variety of military positions during her time as an active member of Ethiopia's aristocracy, including Field Marshal in the Ethiopian Imperial Army and Fleet Admiral in the Imperial Navy. Ethiopia, the Field Marshal of the British Army, and the Air Marshal of the Ethiopian Empire.

Ethiopia is invaded by Italian forces. However, the invasion's momentum had significantly slowed down by November, allowing Haile Selassie's northern force to begin the "Christmas Offensive." The Italians were compelled to retreat and adopt a defensive posture during this attack. The Ethiopian attack was stopped in its tracks by the First Battle of Tembien in early 1936, and the Italians were then prepared to resume their offensive. Haile Selassie led the final Ethiopian force on the northern front into battle after the northern Ethiopian army was routed and obliterated at the Battle of Amba Aradam, the Second Battle of Tembien, and the Battle of the Shire.

At the Battle of Maychew, south of Tigray, on March 31, 1936, he launched a counterattack against the Italians himself. The army of the emperor was routed and fled in disarray. As Haile Selassie's army fled, the Italians launched an aerial assault while arming and supporting dissident Raya and Azebo tribesmen who were on the ground.

When up against Italy, his army had the upper hand and prevailed. He received a rank promotion in the army as a result of this as well.