The 2026 list has been updated: Here are the 20 strongest armies in the world.

The 2026 list has been updated: Here are the 20 strongest armies in the world.

23.01.2026 16:10

In the ranking of the world's strongest armies announced by Global Firepower, Turkey maintains its position in the top 10 by ranking 9th with its military capacity, investments in the defense industry, and operational capabilities.

The Global Firepower ranking, published annually for those closely following global military balances, has been updated. The list, prepared considering numerous criteria such as military capacity, technology level, logistical capabilities, and personnel strength, has reshaped the positions of countries in the defense sector.

AT THE TOP, THE USA, FOLLOWED BY RUSSIA AND CHINA

According to Global Firepower data, the strongest army in the world is the USA. Following the USA are Russia and China, while India ranks fourth and South Korea fifth. France, Japan, and the United Kingdom are also among the countries in the top 10.

TURKEY RANKS NINTH

Turkey's position at ninth place in the list drew attention. Turkey secured a spot in the top 10 by surpassing many countries with its military personnel strength, defense industry investments, land-air-sea elements, and operational capabilities. Italy follows closely behind Turkey in tenth place.

COUNTRIES THAT STAND OUT IN THE MIDDLE RANKS

Continuing the list, countries such as Brazil, Germany, Indonesia, Pakistan, and Israel are positioned in the middle ranks. Iran, Australia, Spain, Egypt, and Ukraine are also among the countries in the top 20.

INVESTMENTS ARE CRUCIAL IN MILITARY BALANCE

According to experts, the Global Firepower ranking reveals not only the current military strengths of countries but also the impact of their investments in the defense industry and technological developments on global balances. The list is being closely monitored, especially due to the increasing regional tensions in recent years.

The list of the world's strongest armies, as announced by Global Firepower, is as follows:

1. United States of America

2. Russia

3. China

4. India

5. South Korea

6. France

7. Japan

8. United Kingdom

9. Turkey

10. Italy

11. Brazil

12. Germany

13. Indonesia

14. Pakistan

15. Israel

16. Iran

17. Australia

18. Spain

19. Egypt

20. Ukraine

In order to provide you with a better service, we position cookies on our site. Your personal data is collected and processed within the scope of KVKK and GDPR. For detailed information, you can review our Data Policy / Disclosure Text. By using our site, you agree to our use of cookies.', '