By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
Air power continues to be a cornerstone of global defense strategy in 2025, giving nations the ability to secure borders, deter threats and project influence far beyond their territories. Fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters not only reinforce national defense but also play a decisive role in shaping military dominance worldwide.
While technology and combat readiness remain crucial, the size of a nation’s military air fleet is still a key measure of aerial strength.
This article by The Nation, highlights the countries with the largest military air fleets in 2025:
1. United States — 13,043 Aircraft
The United States maintains its unrivaled dominance with about 13,043 military aircraft. Its fleet includes nearly 1,800 fighters, 900 transport planes, and thousands of helicopters and support aircraft. Coupled with cutting-edge technology and a global network of military bases, the U.S. remains the world leader in air superiority and rapid deployment capability.
2. Russia — 4,292 Aircraft
Russia ranks second with around 4,292 aircraft, much of which comes from its Soviet-era stockpile. Despite challenges of aging equipment and modernization delays, Moscow still wields formidable aerial strength across its vast territory, providing both strategic depth and deterrence power.
3. China — 3,309 Aircraft
China operates roughly 3,309 aircraft, reflecting its aggressive push to modernize and expand. With heavy investment in next-generation fighter jets, long-range bombers, and maritime patrol planes, Beijing has built capabilities that, in some areas, surpass Russia’s. This modernization underscores China’s ambition for regional air dominance and a growing Pacific presence.
4. India — 2,229 Aircraft
India holds fourth place with 2,229 aircraft, including 513 fighters, 270 transport planes, 899 helicopters, and six aerial refuelers. Its diverse fleet supports operations ranging from high-altitude missions to regional security patrols, giving India stronger air power than most of its neighbors.
5. South Korea — 1,592 Aircraft
South Korea fields about 1,592 aircraft, prioritizing advanced technology and readiness over raw numbers. Its modern multirole fighters, transport planes, and helicopters are designed for rapid response missions, while its seamless integration with U.S. forces ensures high combat effectiveness against regional threats.
6. Japan — 1,443 Aircraft
Japan rounds out the list with approximately 1,443 aircraft. Focused heavily on maritime security and regional defense, its fleet includes advanced fighters, early warning systems, and maritime patrol planes. Strong alliances and cutting-edge technology bolster Tokyo’s position, ensuring it remains a key air power in the Asia-Pacific.