Since the early 20th century, military air power has played a pivotal role in conflicts. Air forces hold a vital place in national defence strategies and serve as the cornerstone of modern, multi-faceted operations thanks to advancements in technology.
Historically, air power has been a decisive factor in altering the course of wars. For instance, during World War II, the Allies leveraged strategic bombing campaigns and fighter support to weaken Axis defensive lines. Similarly, during the Iraq War, the US used precision airstrikes and superior aerial surveillance systems to catch opponents off guard.
Air Fleets Across the World
According to data from Global Firepower for 2024, the United States dominates the global military air fleet rankings by a wide margin. This data encompasses all fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters operated by air forces, ground armies, navies, and special forces across nations.
| Rank | Country | Total Aircraft Fleet |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | United States | 13,209 |
| 2 | Russia | 4,255 |
| 3 | China | 3,304 |
| 4 | India | 2,296 |
| 5 | South Korea | 1,576 |
| 6 | Japan | 1,459 |
| 7 | Pakistan | 1,434 |
| 8 | Egypt | 1,080 |
| 9 | Turkey | 1,069 |
| 10 | France | 972 |
Air Power Balance
The United States’ air fleet is larger than the combined capacity of Russia, China, India, South Korea, and Japan. Its arsenal includes 5,737 helicopters, 1,854 fighter jets, and 3,722 support aircraft. Furthermore, the US accounts for 40% of global military expenditure, spending over $800 billion annually.
Russia, with 1,554 helicopters, 809 fighter jets, and 610 support aircraft, ranks second but faces challenges with an ageing fleet. Since the start of the Ukraine war in 2022, Russia has lost over 220 aircraft.
China, while ranked third, stands out for its significant technological investments and ambitious projects. The country recently unveiled its sixth-generation fighter jet, featuring stealth capabilities and supersonic speeds, indicating its determination to become a leader in air power.
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