The world’s most powerful militaries are ranked based on manpower, land units, naval strength, and air forces. Japan, India, South Korea, France, and the United States top the list in 2023.
1. Japan
Japan has a defense budget of $47 billion per year and 309,000 military personnel. Its army has more than 1,000 tanks and 5,500 armoured vehicles. Japan’s navy has over 155 assets, the second largest fleet of helicopter carriers, and 22 vessels dedicated to planting underwater mines. Its air force is well equipped with attack helicopters like the AH64 Apache and F30FIVES from America.
2. India
With 1.3 billion people, India has one of the largest populations in the world, so it’s no surprise that it also has the largest military manpower, with over 5.1 million personnel. Its defense budget is $49 billion. India develops its own firepower and buys weapons from other countries, including Russia, France, and the United States.
3. South Korea
South Korea has a defense budget of $50 billion per year and 687,000 military personnel. Its army has more than 2,600 tanks and 13,000 armoured vehicles. South Korea’s navy has over 160 assets, including 14 submarines and 12 destroyers. Its air force has over 600 fighter jets, including F-15K Eagles and F-35A Lightning IIs.
4. France
France has a defense budget of $56 billion per year and 208,000 military personnel. Its army has more than 200 tanks and 6,000 armoured vehicles. France’s navy has over 180 assets, including 12 submarines and 15 destroyers. Its air force has over 200 fighter jets, including Rafales and Mirage 2000s.
5. United States
The United States has the world’s largest defense budget at $778 billion per year and 1.3 million military personnel. Its army has more than 5,900 tanks and 39,253 armoured vehicles. The United States Navy has over 470 assets, including 11 aircraft carriers and 68 submarines. Its air force has over 13,000 aircraft, including F-15 Eagles, F-16 Fighting Falcons, and F-35 Lightning IIs.
These five militaries are the most powerful in the world in 2023, based on their size, budget, and equipment. They play an important role in global security and stability.
