Ghost Soldier
In short
A ghost soldier is a person on a military payroll who does not actually exist or does not perform any duties. These fake identities are often used by corrupt officials to steal government funds.
In plain words
Commanders claim they have many troops to get more money from the government. In reality, the soldiers are imaginary. The money meant for their food and pay is pocketed by dishonest leaders instead.
A simple example
A general reports having 1,000 soldiers in his unit to receive a large monthly budget. He actually only has 500 real people, so he keeps the extra wages for himself.
Why it matters
This practice weakens national security because a country might think it is stronger than it really is. It also wastes huge amounts of taxpayer money that could be used for real defence.
Easy to mix up
Do not confuse this with a 'ghost ship', which is a vessel found drifting without a crew.