10 Largest Air Forces in the World, Ranked by Military Aircraft Numbers

So, which nations have the largest air forces in the world? Based on data from Flight Global‘s 2024 World Air Forces report, here are the top 10 countries ranked by the number of military aircraft in their fleets.

10. France – 972 Military Aircraft

Despite its pivotal role in both World Wars, France ranks 10th with a fleet of 972 aircraft. The French Air Force (FAF), formed in 1909, continues to modernize with the addition of 39 Rafale F4.1 jets by 2025. Approximately 38% of its fleet consists of multi-role fighters, including the Rafale, M2000D, and M2000-5F. France has also recently acquired two Airbus H225M helicopters and operates the A400M transport aircraft to enhance its military capabilities.

9. Turkey – 1,069 Military Aircraft

The Turkish Air Force, one of the oldest in the world (established in 1911), commands a fleet of 1,069 aircraft. Its latest addition is the KAAN, a fifth-generation stealth fighter developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries. Turkey also plans to acquire 40 Eurofighter Typhoon jets from Britain and has secured a deal with the U.S. to add F-16 jets, ensuring future growth in air power.

8. Egypt – 1,069 Military Aircraft

The Egyptian Air Force (EAF) holds a significant position in the Middle East with 1,069 military aircraft. It has strengthened its fleet with 179 F-16 fighters and 75 Dassault Mirage 5 jets. Egypt has turned to European partners for fleet modernization, acquiring 30 Rafale fighters in 2021. However, maintaining a diverse fleet from multiple countries remains a logistical challenge.

7. Pakistan – 1,434 Military Aircraft

Pakistan’s Air Force (PAF) boasts 1,434 active aircraft, making it a formidable force. Its long-standing partnership with the U.S. during the Cold War facilitated rapid modernization. Today, the Pakistan Aeronautical Complex maintains an advanced fleet, including JF-17 Thunder, F-16, J-10C, and Mirage jets. Pakistan has also partnered with Turkey to develop the fifth-generation KAAN fighter.

6. Japan – 1,459 Military Aircraft

With 1,459 aircraft, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) is a highly advanced military power. It operates 127 fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II aircraft and 105 multi-role F-2 Support Fighters. Japan has approved a record $55.1 billion defense budget for 2025 and is working on a joint sixth-generation combat aircraft project with the U.K. and Italy.

5. South Korea – 1,576 Military Aircraft

South Korea’s air force has a fleet of 1,576 aircraft. Its modernization efforts include acquiring F-35A stealth fighters and upgrading its F-15K jets with a $6.2 billion deal with the U.S. South Korea is also developing the KF-21 Boramae, a multi-role fighter to replace its aging F-4E Phantom II fleet. Defense spending is projected to rise significantly by 2029 to support these upgrades.

4. India – 2,296 Military Aircraft

India’s air force is one of the most advanced, with 2,296 aircraft, including MiG-21, Mirage 2000, Su-30, and Rafale fighters. The Lockheed Martin F-21, a customized variant of the F-16, is a notable addition. India showcased its indigenous capabilities with the C-295 transport aircraft during its Republic Day Fly-Past in 2025, reinforcing its commitment to domestic defense production.

3. China – 3,304 Military Aircraft

China’s People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) owns 3,304 aircraft, including 1,207 fighters, representing 6% of the global total. It continues to advance its capabilities with the J-35A stealth fighter and the sixth-generation Chengdu J-36. The modernization of the PLAAF may shift global military power dynamics in the coming years.

2. Russia – 4,255 Military Aircraft

Russia’s air force is the second-largest globally, with 4,255 aircraft. Its fleet includes the MiG-29, a fourth-generation fighter, and the advanced Sukhoi Su-57 fifth-generation aircraft, which debuted at the 2024 Airshow China. Russia continues to invest in military aviation, manufacturing several combat jets annually.

1. United States – 13,300 Military Aircraft

The United States has the largest and most advanced air force in the world, with approximately 13,300 military aircraft. The U.S. Air Force (USAF) is bolstered by cutting-edge fighters like the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II. Additionally, the U.S. operates a vast number of bombers, transport aircraft, and drones, maintaining global air superiority.