Highest Military Budgets in 2025: Global defense expenditures have hit new records in 2025, mirroring changing power relations, geostrategic tensions, and defense force modernization. Based on current statistics, the United States remains at the forefront of defense spending, followed by China and Russia. This is a comprehensive breakdown of the top 15 nations with the largest defense budgets in 2025.
Highest Military Budgets in 2025
1.United States – $895.0 Billion
The U.S. holds its position as the highest spender with a whopping defense budget of $895 billion—nearly three times that of the second-highest. This budget funds a massive international presence, advanced technology research and development, and upgradation of nuclear and cyber capabilities.
2. China – $266.8 Billion
China’s military expenditure is indicative of its aspirations to become a global superpower. With $266.8 billion, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is building its navy power, cyber warfare, and artificial intelligence (AI) integration into defense.
3. Russia – $126.0 Billion
In spite of being under constant economic sanctions, Russia has raised its military spendings to $126 billion. This is indicative of its continued investment in the Ukraine conflict and emphasis on nuclear and aerospace power.
4. India – $75.0 Billion
India’s increasing defense budget is consistent with its border security needs and desire to emerge as a preeminent regional power. With a defense budget of $75 billion, India is investing significantly in indigenous defense production and the modernization of its military.
5. Saudi Arabia – $74.7 Billion
Saudi Arabia is ranked among the top five with $74.7 billion, fueled by local conflicts and attempts to protect its oil infrastructure. The nation is still one of the largest buyers of U.S. and European weapons.
6.United Kingdom – $71.5 Billion
The UK continues to spend big on sophisticated defense equipment, nuclear deterrence, and international military alliances like NATO. Its $71.5 billion budget funds overseas operations and cybersecurity infrastructure.
7. Japan – $57.0 Billion
Japan has been gradually raising its defense budget to counter regional threats from China and North Korea. Its $57 billion budget goes toward missile defense, naval strength, and joint operations with American forces.
8. Australia – $55.7 Billion
Australia’s defense budget of $55.7 billion is a sign of its increasing investment in Indo-Pacific security and the modernization of its naval and air force capabilities, especially in collaboration with allies such as the U.S. and UK.
9. France – $55.0 Billion
France continues to have a robust defense profile in Europe with $55 billion in military spending. Investments are made in nuclear deterrence, worldwide deployments, and arms exports.
10. Ukraine – $53.7 Billion
In the midst of its conflict with Russia, Ukraine has increased its defense expenditure to $53.7 billion. It comprises local funding as well as major international military support, particularly from NATO countries.
11. Germany – $50.0 Billion
Germany has committed to rearming its military with a budget of $50 billion, with an emphasis on NATO obligations, modernizing its armored forces, as well as cybersecurity.
12. Poland – $48.7 Billion
Poland has more than doubled its defense budget to $48.7 billion, propelled by security issues along NATO’s eastern border and as a major military hub in Europe.
13. Turkey – $47.3 Billion
Turkey’s $47.3 billion defense spending funds the production of domestic arms, operations in the region, and growth in its drone fleet.
14.South Korea – $46.3 Billion
South Korea’s $46.3 billion defense budget targets missile defense, cyber vulnerability, and preparation against threats from North Korea.
15.Canada – $41.0 Billion
Canada takes the last slot in the top 15 list with a defense budget of $41 billion focusing on the modernization of forces, NATO deployments, and growing Arctic defense efforts.
Global Military Trends in 2025
The worldwide rise in defense spending highlights a larger pattern of militarization to counter shifting global threats, such as cyber warfare, local conflicts, and great power rivalry. Countries are not only rising spending but also investing in technological development, combined exercises, and strategic defense pacts.
