Global Firepower Index 2025: USA Tops Military Ranking, Russia And China Close; India Ranks Fourth Among 145 Nations

The Global Firepower Military Strength Ranking for 2025 has unveiled the list of the world's most powerful militaries, analysing the capabilities of 145 countries based on over 60 distinct factors.

The ranking provides a Power Index score, where 0.0000 is considered ‘perfect,’ offering a nuanced perspective on global military might.

The United States continues its reign as the undisputed leader, maintaining its top position since 2005. With a Power Index score of 0.0744, the USA’s dominance stems from its vast manpower, robust financial resources, immense material reserves, and advanced industrial output.

Russia holds the second rank with a Power Index score of 0.0788, despite the strain of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Strategic alliances with nations like Iran, North Korea, and China bolster its standing on the global stage.

Followed by Russia is China, sharing a score of 0.0788. Coupled with a robust industrial base, It continues to expand its military capabilities through substantial investments in defence and development.

With a score of 0.1184, India secures its spot at fourth. According to the Global Firepower Review, India comes in the Top 5 World Power which had a top GFP placement for at least 10 consecutive years.

South Korea ranks fifth, reflecting its growing investment in defence and strategic partnerships. Japan follows at seventh, Türkiye at eighth, and Iran secures the 14th position, showcasing the rising defence capabilities of these nations, driven by increased defence budgets and industrial growth.

The bottom of the rankings features Kosovo, Somalia, Central African Republic, Benin, and Bhutan, underscoring the disparity in military resources and capabilities.

Global Firepower evaluates nations based on a detailed methodology incorporating approximately 60 factors. Key considerations include troop numbers, military hardware, financial stability, geographic positioning, and natural resources. This holistic approach ensures a fair assessment of nations with varying military strengths.

The Power Index system accommodates smaller, technologically advanced nations, allowing them to compete against larger, less-developed powers. By applying bonuses and penalties to specific factors, the rankings provide a balanced and insightful representation of global military power.

The rankings highlight the shifting dynamics of global defence, with established powers maintaining dominance while emerging players strengthen their positions. This list serves as a critical reference for understanding the evolving military landscape.