The data reveals that India maintains the largest military force with over 3 million personnel, outstripping China, which has seen a decline of 2.67% year-on-year. Remarkably, Pakistan and North Korea demonstrate positive growth. Advanced economies like the United States and Russia register modest reductions, reflecting strategic shifts towards technology-intensive military capabilities. Notable developments include Venezuela and Saudi Arabia with significant increases, suggesting regional militarization trends. Meanwhile, the Ivory Coast and Mali display standout growth, influenced by increased stability measures.
Future trends to watch include a probable continued decline in traditional armed forces within technological powerhouses like the United States and China, focusing instead on digital warfare capabilities. Rising personnel numbers in volatile regions highlight persisting security challenges and the need for international cooperation.
Top countries in Military Forces Personnel by Country
| # | 10 Countries | Units (Persons) | Last Year | YoY | 5-years CAGR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 India | 3,138,400 | 2023 | +0.74% | +0.73% | View data |
| 2 | 2 China | 2,353,800 | 2023 | -2.47% | -2.67% | View data |
| 3 | 3 North Korea | 1,517,100 | 2023 | +0.95% | +0.65% | View data |
| 4 | 4 Russia | 1,447,500 | 2023 | +0.52% | -0.089% | View data |
| 5 | 5 United States | 1,357,800 | 2023 | -0.89% | -0.32% | View data |
| 6 | 6 Pakistan | 969,540 | 2023 | +0.87% | +0.52% | View data |
| 7 | 7 Egypt | 843,210 | 2023 | +0.28% | +0.18% | View data |
| 8 | 8 Brazil | 763,740 | 2023 | +0.075% | +0.059% | View data |
| 9 | 9 Indonesia | 695,370 | 2023 | +0.93% | +0.58% | View data |
| 10 | 10 Iran | 621,820 | 2023 | -1.47% | -0.88% | View data |
