Why was Sparta's military mostly an army?

Sparta's military was primarily an army because its society was centered around land-based warfare and the defense of its territory. The Spartan culture emphasized the importance of infantry, particularly hoplites, who were heavily armed foot soldiers trained from a young age in rigorous military discipline. Additionally, the geography of the Peloponnesian Peninsula favored ground battles, making a strong land army essential for protecting and expanding Spartan interests. This focus on land combat shaped Sparta's societal structure, prioritizing military training and prowess above all else.