10 Most Powerful Militaries in the World in 2024

Page 9 of 10

2. China

GDP (2023): $17.7 trillion

Defense Spending (2022): $292 billion

Nuclear Weapons: 350

Manpower: 2,035,000

Tanks: 5,000

Aircraft including Fighter Jets: 2,084

Aircraft Carriers: 2

Submarines: 61

Military Satellites in Orbit: 125

Overseas Bases: 1

Cybersecurity Ranking: 2

Technological Advancement Ranking: 12

Overall Score: 0.853

China has the largest army in the world in terms of manpower, with a force consisting of over 2 million troops. With a GDP nearing the $18 trillion mark, Beijing has a distinct economic edge which it leverages to upgrade its armed forces. The government spent $292 billion on defense expenditure in 2022. China ranks high among the most technologically advanced countries as well, which is helping it catch up with the US in air power. According to a report, its J-20A is on track to eclipse America’s F-22 Raptor in inventory.

Page 9 of 10