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TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - NATO—the abbreviation for North Atlantic Treaty Organization—currently has 32 member countries that convene to address political and security issues. Among these nations, some boast impressively large armed forces to enhance their defense capabilities.
As the scale of armies may influence the dynamic of global security, here’s a look at some of the NATO countries with the largest armed forces.
10 NATO Countries with the Largest Armed Forces
US News and Statista mentioned that the United States (U.S.), Turkey, and the United Kingdom are NATO countries with the largest armed forces at present, with other nations as follows:
1. United States
As of July 2024, the number of active military personnel in the U.S. is recorded to be a whopping 1,328,000 individuals. Such an outstanding figure is bolstered by hefty military expenditures, which reportedly stretched into US$877 billion, or equivalent to 40% of global accounts.
2. Turkey
Following the U.S., Turkey has the second-largest armed forces in NATO, supporting more than 355,200 active military personnel in its roster. According to Reuters, the country’s armed forces include 402,000 army crews, 46,000 navy troops, 60,000 air force members, and a 150,000-strong paramilitary force.
3. Poland
Owing to the country's largest modernization program in history, Polish armed forces now rank fairly high on the list, comprising 202,100 active military troops with 130,000 professional soldiers, per European Security & Defense. Despite the expansion, Poland’s military ranking sits at eight, with its global power index concluded at 0.2917. For this amount alone, the country has spent 4% of its GDP on the defense industry
4. France
Claiming fourth place on the list of NATO countries with the largest armed forces is France, housing 200,000 active military personnel in July 2024. France is notable among its European peers for its strong military, amplifying its global power index at 0.1878, according to Global Fire Power.
5. United Kingdom
The United Kingdom now has 184,860 active military troops under their belts. According to the data released by the UK Parliament, of the 5,700 members deployed abroad, around two-thirds were in Europe while the rest were assigned in various regions including North America, the Middle East, North Africa, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Asia.
6. Germany
As the richest country in Europe, generating US$4.69 trillion in GDP, Germany has one of the most advanced militaries in the world, with 181,600 active military personnel. The nation’s army operates 134 self-propelled artillery as well as 295 tanks. Its global power index data showcases a high number at 0.2847, making the country one of the top-performing NATO allies in terms of military strength.
7. Italy
In 2024, Italy had established itself as one of the NATO members upholding the largest armed forces, with over 50% of its military personnel actively serving. While the country’s air force is supported by a fleet of 800 aircraft, its naval landscapes are fortified by 8 submarines, 18 patrol vessels, and 13 frigates.
8. Greece
Although Greece is best known for its tourism, the country has a total of 142,700 active military troops. In addition to its military power, which currently handles 11 submarines, 13 frigates, and 35 patrol vessels, Greece’s global power index also demonstrates excellency at 0.4349. In recent years, the country’s growing economy has enabled the military forces to operate a staggering number of 1,365 tanks and 57,030 vehicles altogether.
9. Spain
A total of 133,282 active military personnel are shielding all areas of Spain, making the country one of the NATO members with the largest armed forces. Of all the troops, they maintain a professional stance on operating 513 aircraft, 139 fighter jets, 11 frigates, and 327 tanks.
10. Romania
Mentioned last on the list of NATO allies that support the largest armed forces, Romania has 81,300 active military personnel. In defending the nation, these troops handle 131 aircraft, 345 tanks, and 3 frigates.
As geopolitical landscapes evolve, these NATO countries with the largest armed forces become increasingly significant in addressing emerging threats and fostering international peace. Aside from the mentioned nations, other countries across the globe are also seen having significant army personnel to help shape the world’s global security dynamics.
STATISTA | GLOBAL FIRE POWER | US NEWS
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