• Source:JND
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India has been ranked as the fourth most powerful military in the world in the Global Firepower Index 2025 (GFP Index). The ranking reaffirms India's growing defence capabilities across the Army, Navy and Air Force, solidifying its position among the world's top military powers. The United States retains the top position, followed by Russia and China in second and third place, respectively.

Top 10 Countries With Most Powerful Military 

According to the GFP Index 2025, the top 10 military powers are:

  1. United States - PwrIndx: 0.0744

  2. Russia - PwrIndx: 0.0788

  3. China - PwrIndx: 0.0788

  4. India - PwrIndx: 0.1184

  5. South Korea - PwrIndx: 0.1656

  6. United Kingdom - PwrIndx: 0.1785

  7. France - PwrIndx: 0.1878

  8. Japan - PwrIndx: 0.1839

  9. Türkiye - PwrIndx: 0.1902

  10. Italy - PwrIndx: 0.2164

India's position in the index highlights its rapid defence modernisation, strategic deterrence and increasing military strength. Meanwhile, Pakistan, which was ranked 9th in 2024, has now fallen to 12th place, even trailing behind Brazil.

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Key Factors Behind India's Military Strength

Army: India's Army has 1.45 million active personnel, backed by 1.15 million reserve troops and a paramilitary force of over 2.5 million. It boasts an array of advanced weaponry, including T-90 Bhishma and Arjun tanks, BrahMos missiles and Pinaka rocket systems.

Air Force: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has expanded significantly, operating 2,229 aircraft, including, 600 fighter jets (Rafale, Su-30MKI), 899 helicopters, 831 support aircraft and advanced missile systems such as Astra, Rudram, Nirbhay and BrahMos.

Navy: The Indian Navy has reinforced its presence with 142,251 personnel and a fleet of 150 warships and submarines. Key assets include INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant aircraft carriers, Nuclear submarines, P-8i maritime reconnaissance aircraft and 50+ new vessels under construction.

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Pakistan's Decline In Military Ranking

Pakistan has dropped to the 12th position in the GFP Index 2025. The ranking considers over 60 factors, including military units, economy, logistics, and geography. The country’s financial crisis and limited resources have contributed to its decline in global military power rankings.