US Tops 2025 Global Military Strength Rankings, Iran and Iraq Make Notable Moves
Among Middle Eastern countries, Iran remains a formidable regional power, ranking 14th globally and 3rd in the region, trailing only behind Turkey and Egypt.
ERBIL (Kuridstan24) - In the latest Global Firepower Index (GFP) for 2025, the United States has once again secured its position as the world's most powerful military, reinforcing its longstanding global dominance. The annual rankings, published by GlobalFirepower.com, evaluate the military capabilities of 145 nations using over 60 metrics, including manpower, weapon systems, logistical capacity, natural resources, financial strength, and geographical positioning.
The top five military powers in 2025 are:
- United States – Power Index: 0.0744
- Russia – Power Index: 0.0788
- China – Power Index: 0.0788
- India – Power Index: 0.1184
- South Korea – Power Index: 0.1656
The rankings highlight a competitive race between Russia and China, who are tied closely in the second and third spots, reflecting significant investments in modern warfare capabilities, advanced technologies, and regional influence.
European powers also maintain a strong presence in the top ten. The United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Turkey remain key players, while Japan continues to hold firm with a well-equipped and technologically advanced defense structure.
Middle East Military Trends: Iran and Iraq Climb the Ranks
Among Middle Eastern countries, Iran remains a formidable regional power, ranking 14th globally and 3rd in the region, trailing only behind Turkey and Egypt. Iran's continued development of missile technology and expansion of its defense industry contribute to its high ranking despite facing international sanctions and economic pressure.
Iraq has made significant strides, moving up from 45th to 43rd globally. This improvement also places Iraq 4th among Arab nations, showcasing the country’s gradual rebuilding of its armed forces and growing military partnerships in the post-ISIS era.
Meanwhile, Pakistan, which ranked 9th in 2024, has dropped to 12th place, reflecting shifting dynamics in South Asia and internal economic constraints.
Methodology and Global Impact
The Global Firepower Index does not measure nuclear capabilities directly but considers the overall balance of military strength, sustainability, and readiness for conflict. A lower Power Index score indicates a stronger military. The rankings provide strategic insight into how countries position themselves in the global defense hierarchy and are widely followed by analysts, defense ministries, and international organizations.
With global tensions and regional conflicts continuing to shape international relations, the GFP Index offers a timely snapshot of military preparedness and influence heading into the second half of the decade.
USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70) living up to its motto: "Vis Per Mare," which means “Strength from the Sea” in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility… pic.twitter.com/4t964ihhbg
— U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) April 12, 2025
