8. Iran
Military budget in 2015 in USD billions: 10.2
Compulsory Service Length
Men: 18 months
Women: None
Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran, despite their distinctive lack of modern and high-tech weaponry and equipment, are often described as the “most powerful military force” in the region, apart from Israel Defense Force. In the 1970s, Iran’s arsenal was heavily supplied by the United States. After the revolution, the supplies of spare parts dried up and Iran was forced to turn to domestic production. The losses in the war with Iraq further aggravated the situation. Since then, Iran has managed to create respectful armed forces, in part via compulsory military service. The daring rescue of a downed Russian pilot in Syria in 2015 witnessed to Iranian Special Forces battle prowess.
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