Top 6 Largest Arms Exporting Countries In The World
Amid rising geopolitical tensions and the emergence of a “new nuclear arms race,” global military spending has surged by 37% from 2015 to 2025, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute’s (SIPRI) Yearbook 2025.
Almost all nine nuclear-armed states are modernising their arsenals, while arms exports continue to shape international power dynamics.
USA
The United States leads with 43% of global arms exports between 2020 and 2024, supplying advanced aircraft, missile systems, and defense technologies to allies worldwide.
France
France holds 9.6% of the global arms export share, making it the second-largest exporter. Its exports include fighter jets, naval ships, and missile systems.
Russia
Russia’s share has fallen to 7.8%, largely due to sanctions, Ukraine conflict demands, and prioritisation of domestic military production.
China
China accounts for 5.9% of global arms exports, exporting fighter jets, drones, and missile systems, especially to Asian and African nations.
Germany
With 5.6% of global arms exports, Germany supplies submarines, missile systems, and vehicles, with Ukraine, Egypt, and Israel among key buyers.
Italy
Italy has risen to sixth place with a 4.8% share, exporting naval vessels, aircraft, and missile technologies to the Middle East and North Africa.
