Joe SaballaJanuary 17, 2024
1 minute read
The US military remains the world’s most powerful in 2024, according to a global ranking recently released by Global Firepower.
The ranking evaluated 145 countries based on over 60 factors, such as number of troops, military equipment, and financial stability.
The US military took the top spot after showcasing “commanding numbers” in key material, financial, and resource categories, the report noted.
It reportedly owns 92 destroyers, 11 aircraft carriers, 13,300 aircraft, and 983 attack helicopters – “the most in the world.”
It also has the largest budget at $886 billion among all the countries in the list.
Coming close to US military strength are the Russian and Chinese armed forces, which are in the second and third spots, respectively.
India Edges UK, South Korea
The Indian military cinched the fourth spot this year, edging out South Korea and the UK by a slight margin.
This milestone is not surprising, considering New Delhi’s increased investments in sophisticated military weapons and equipment under the “Make in India” initiative.
Last month, the country commissioned its third Visakhapatnam-class stealth guided missile destroyer, further bolstering its naval firepower.
India has a total of 294 naval assets, including two aircraft carriers, 12 frigates, and 18 submarines, according to Global Firepower.
The UK, meanwhile, only ranked sixth in the world amid reports of dwindling military capabilities.
The British military is currently facing several challenges, including a shortage of personnel and an alleged difficulty in replenishing stockpiles sent to Ukraine.
Most Notable Movements
Global Firepowerhighlighted five countries with increased military strength this year.
They are South Korea (5th), Japan (7th), Turkey (8th), Iran (14th), and Israel (17th).
Seoul made the top 5 after boasting air power of 1,576 aircraft and naval strength of around 200 assets.
