x(563).png "Military: Highest Military Spending, by country"){kind=logo}
Saudi Arabia
South Korea
Japan
IsraelData Analysis and Insights
United States leads in military spending
The United States' military budget stands at 877.0 billion U.S. dollars, vastly outpacing China, the second-highest spender, by 585.0 billion U.S. dollars. Such a significant gap underscores the United States' dominant position in global military expenditure.Top 5 countries account for majority of spending
Combined military spending of the top five countries (United States, China, Russia, India, and Saudi Arabia) reaches 1411.8 billion U.S. dollars, representing a substantial portion of the total expenditure among the listed countries. This concentration of expenditure highlights the major powers' influence on global military dynamics.European nations' military budgets
European nations on the list (United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy) collectively spend 211.4 billion U.S. dollars on their militaries, indicating a significant investment in defense within Europe, albeit still lower than the top individual spenders outside the continent.Rapid response and defense priorities
Ukraine, with a military budget of 44.0 billion U.S. dollars, ranks 11th among the listed countries, underscoring its substantial investment in defense amidst security challenges. The investment level is noteworthy, especially when compared to countries with larger economies.Asia-Pacific region's strategic investments
Countries in the Asia-Pacific region (China, India, South Korea, Japan, and Australia) have a total military spending of 496.7 billion U.S. dollars. Significant investment in the region reflects strategic priorities and ongoing shifts in military and geopolitical balances.Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has the highest military budget in the world?
What is the combined military spending of the top 5 countries?
The combined military spending of the top five countries is 1411.8 billion U.S. dollars.
How much is Europe's collective defense budget?
European nations United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Italy have a collective military spending of 211.4 billion U.S. dollars.
What is the total military spending by countries in the Asia-Pacific region?
Countries in the Asia-Pacific region collectively spend 496.7 billion U.S. dollars on their militaries.
Terms and Definitions
Military spending refers to the financial resources allocated by a nation for its defense. This can encompass various expenses, including salaries and benefits for military personnel, procurement of equipment and weapons, cost of military operations, and research and development of defense technology.
Gross Domestic Product, or GDP, represents the total market value of all goods and services produced in a country within a specific time period. It serves as a measure of a nation's overall economic activity and health.
The military-industrial complex refers to the intricate relationship between a nation's military, government, and defense industry. It is often associated with the pursuit of political power and economic gain through the production and purchase of military technology and weaponry.
The defense budget is the portion of a country's budget allocated to national security and defense expenses. It primarily funds military forces, defense research and development, war expenditures, and other expenses related to national security.
The arms trade refers to the international trade of weapons, military equipment, and related services. It includes the sale, supply, transfer, and licensing of military goods and services between states and non-state actors.
Military personnel refers to active duty service members in the armed services of a country, which includes Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, and other defense forces. This does not typically include civilian employees or contractors.
The defense industry comprises all businesses and organizations involved in the production and supply of military weaponry, equipment, and services. This can include manufacturers of arms, ammunition, vehicles, and military technology.
Reserve forces are military members who are not in active service but who can be called upon in times of emergency or war. These individuals typically have full-time civilian roles and serve in the military on a part-time basis.
All statistics
Related statistics
Ukraine War: Number of U.S. Military Equipment Transported to...
The Ukraine War has seen a significant increase in the amount of U.S. military equipment, including armored vehicles, artillery, and communication systems, transported to Ukraine since the start of the Russian invasion.
Read more »
Read more »
All topics
Related topics
Arms Trade and Defense Spending
Defense spending and arms trade refers to the financial allocation and transactions made by nations or international entities to develop, purchase, sell, and maintain military equipment, weaponry, and technologies for national security and political lever Read more »
All locations
Related locations
Canada
Explore Canada's detailed statistical profile, including demographics, economy, education, and healthcare. Learn about this North American country's population, GDP. Read more »